Drivers at risk of 'unnecessary liabilities' such as fines over little-known used car scam
Drivers are at risk of being affected by their previous second-hand vehicles due to a simple used car scam not known to many.
Motorists could be caught out by a little-known used car scam with road users at risk of penalties such as hefty fines.
According to Scrap Car Comparison, vehicles set to be written off or scrapped may dodge their fate and end up unknowingly sold.
In this situation, the original owners can still be held responsible for the vehicle years later in a major blow.
Scrap Car Comparison warns the previous owner can be liable for fines or penalties picked up by the vehicle unless they can prove their model was scrapped.
As well as being held responsible for any penalties picked up by the vehicle, including fines or penalty notices, owners may still be forced to pay out for incurring costs such as insurance.
David Kottaun, Operations Manager at Scrap Car Comparison, urged owners to double check their old vehicle has been properly removed from the road as quickly as possible.
He explained: "Ensuring your car has been properly scrapped can provide peace of mind and protect you from unnecessary liabilities such as fines, penalties, and ongoing costs.
"By making some quick checks – either after scrapping an old vehicle or as you’re purchasing a new second-hand one – drivers can protect themselves and stay as safe as possible on the roads."
The experts have urged road users to conduct an HPI check soon after getting a vehicle scrapped.
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Free online services through the DVLA provide information about SORN status, tax details and whether a car has a valid MOT test.
However, an HPI check can go into more detail and find out whether a model has been scrapped, stolen or written off.
Crucially, the check can also determine whether there is any outstanding finance on the vehicle which an owner could be liable for.
The tests cost between £10 and £30, which is a small price to pay for peace of mind.
Scrap Car Comparison also urges road users to get confirmation the vehicle has been destroyed directly from the scrap dealer.
Motorists must also ensure they obtain a Certificate of Destruction (CoD) as soon as possible, which acts as a binding seal that a vehicle has been removed.
When getting rid of a car, drivers will have to inform the DVLA as soon as possible.
After the DVLA has confirmed the vehicle is marked as scrapped, motorists will receive their CoD from the scrapyard.
This will usually take around seven days to arrive but it is a crucial document that could save motorists headaches.
The official certificate serves as proof that the vehicle has been scrapped meaning motorists can prevent any comeback later down the line.
