EU Proposes Annual Inspections for Cars Over Ten Years Old

The European Commission has put forth a proposal that mandates annual inspections for vehicles that are older than ten years. This initiative aims to enhance road safety and reduce the number of traffic-related fatalities across the European Union. However, before this measure can be implemented, it requires the approval of both the European Parliament and the member states.

The primary objective behind the proposal is to decrease the incidence of traffic accidents and fatalities. According to the European Commission, implementing yearly inspections for older vehicles, including cars and light commercial vehicles, could lead to a reduction of one percent in the number of deaths and injuries on the roads.

The rationale for this initiative stems from evidence suggesting that older vehicles are more prone to mechanical failures and are statistically more likely to be involved in accidents. Moreover, these vehicles tend to have higher emissions, contributing to environmental concerns. The Commission highlighted that while technical defects account for only a small percentage of accident causes, the introduction of annual inspections for older cars could significantly enhance overall safety, particularly on European roads.

In Germany, cars are typically required to undergo a major inspection every two years, regardless of their age. New vehicles are not due for their first inspection until three years after their initial registration. Failure to adhere to these inspection timelines can result in fines during vehicle checks by authorities. Furthermore, it is worth noting that several EU countries already enforce annual inspections for older vehicles.

The proposed measure reflects the EU's commitment to improving road safety and reducing casualties related to road traffic. With cars being responsible for a significant portion of traffic-related deaths, the Commission believes that systematic inspections can make a meaningful difference in ensuring the safety of all road users.

As discussions around this proposal continue, stakeholders within the automotive industry, consumer groups, and safety advocates will be closely monitoring developments. The outcome could have far-reaching implications for vehicle owners and manufacturers across Europe.