Tivoli News Update August 2024
The state of UK roads and the challenges faced by motorists are constantly changing, with new issues emerging that affect driver safety, vehicle maintenance, and insurance costs. Read more in this month’s Tivoli News Update August 2024.
Rising car theft rates, the increasing prevalence of drink-driving incidents, and the deteriorating condition of local roads are among the concerns that directly impact every motorist.
This blog looks at the latest data and reports on these pressing issues, offering insights and practical advice for drivers.
Staying informed is crucial, whether you’re dealing with the aftermath of a collision, concerned about your car’s security, or simply going about your day in your vehicle.
At Tivoli Auto Services, we’re committed to helping you maintain your vehicle and ensure your safety on the road.
Beware of QR Code Scams at Car Parks: Keep Your Payments Secure
A rise in QR code scams at public car parks has led to a warning from the RAC for drivers to be extremely vigilant when paying for parking. Known as ‘quishing,’ these scams involve fake QR codes that direct drivers to fraudulent websites designed to steal personal information and money.
Fraudsters often place these codes on parking payment machines, leading unsuspecting drivers to believe they are paying for parking when in reality, they are handing over sensitive data.
The RAC advises avoiding QR code payments altogether and instead using cash, bank cards, or official parking apps. If a QR code is the only option, drivers should carefully inspect the code and ensure the payment website’s URL is secure.
Ensure your vehicle’s safety extends beyond just the parking lot. Tivoli Auto Services offers comprehensive vehicle security checks and maintenance to keep your car running smoothly and safely.
Book in for us to check your vehicle’s safety features and ensure they are all working and driving with peace of mind.
Driving Instructor Shortages Add to Learner Driver Woes
The UK’s shortage of driving instructors makes it increasingly difficult for learner drivers to book lessons, with waiting times ranging from two to six months. This delay is compounded by a backlog of driving tests, leaving learners in limbo and prolonging the process of obtaining a licence.
The situation is particularly concerning as learning to drive is considered a critical life skill. However, financial and practical barriers, such as the availability of lessons and tests, make this milestone harder to achieve.
The latest data from the DVSA indicates that waiting times for driving tests in England are currently at 19 weeks, with Scotland and Wales not far behind.
While waiting for your driving lessons, ensure your vehicle is in top condition with Tivoli Auto Services. Whether you need a routine check-up, brake inspection, or a full vehicle health check, we’ve got you covered.
Are Cyclists Safe on UK Roads? Many Drivers Still Unaware of New Laws
Many UK drivers remain unaware of the 2022 updates to the Highway Code, which introduced a ‘hierarchy of responsibility’ to protect vulnerable road users, such as cyclists.
This hierarchy places greater accountability on drivers of larger vehicles to ensure the safety of those more vulnerable in the event of a collision.
Despite the updates being in place for over two years, 42% of drivers are still unaware of their increased responsibilities. The AA calls for a comprehensive awareness campaign to ensure all drivers understand these rules, particularly long-standing motorists who may not have revisited the Highway Code since passing their driving test.
Staying informed about road safety is crucial for every driver.
At Tivoli Auto Services, we’re committed to protecting cars and cyclists. We ensure your vehicle has all of the safety features to enable you to see clearly and watch out for cyclists, including all mirrors, cameras and other devices.
Drink-Driving at a 13-Year High: Could Alcolocks Be the Solution?
The issue of drink-driving remains a significant concern in the UK, with over 1,900 people killed or seriously injured in drink-drive collisions in 2022. This marks the highest number of drink-drive deaths in 13 years.
The rising fatalities have led to calls for stricter measures, including the introduction of ‘alcolocks’—devices that prevent a vehicle from starting unless the driver passes a breathalyser test.
Despite a reduction in the overall number of collisions, the increase in fatalities highlights the need for stronger deterrents. The RAC and AA are advocating for the implementation of alcolocks, particularly for repeat offenders, and an increased police presence on the roads to curb these incidents.
Safety on the road begins with responsible driving and a well-maintained vehicle. At Tivoli Auto Services, we’re dedicated to keeping you and your vehicle safe.
Whether you need a routine check-up, brake inspection, or advice on vehicle safety, our expert team is here to help.
Bleak Picture” as 130,000 Cars Were Stolen in the UK Last Year, with 77% of Cases Never Solved
Car theft in the UK remains at a 15-year high, with nearly 130,000 vehicles stolen in the last year. Alarmingly, 77% of these cases remain unsolved, highlighting the sophistication of car thieves and the lack of dedicated vehicle theft task forces.
The RAC and AA have called for more robust measures to combat vehicle crime, including re-establishing vehicle theft task forces. The rise in car theft has a broader impact on all motorists, contributing to higher insurance premiums.
Protect your vehicle from theft and tampering with Tivoli Auto Services. We offer advanced security checks and installations to ensure your car is as secure as possible. Don’t wait until it’s too late—book a security check with us today and drive with peace of mind.
Car Insurance Prices Fall for the First Time in 2 Years
For the first time in two years, car insurance prices in the UK have decreased, with the average premium falling by £13 in the second quarter of 2024. However, this positive trend is tempered by ongoing concerns about the fairness of premium pricing, particularly for ethnic minorities and those with high debt levels.
Citizens Advice has highlighted the issue of the “insurance postcode lottery,” where individuals in predominantly non-white neighbourhoods consistently face higher insurance premiums. Despite these disparities, the overall decrease in insurance costs offers some hope for motorists.
Don’t let unexpected costs catch you off guard. At Tivoli Auto Services, we offer comprehensive vehicle inspections and maintenance services to help prevent costly repairs. Keep your vehicle in top condition and protect your investment.
Government Does Not Understand How Bad UK Local Roads Have Become
The condition of local roads in the UK has become a significant issue, with the National Audit Office (NAO) revealing the government’s lack of understanding of the problem.
The NAO’s report highlights the disconnect between the Department for Transport (DfT) and local councils, leading to concerns about the effectiveness of road maintenance and funding distribution.
The report criticises the DfT’s focus on short-term solutions and the lack of comprehensive data collection from local authorities. The RAC and AA have called for longer-term funding and stricter controls to ensure more effective and permanent road repairs.
Has your car suffered damage from poorly maintained roads? Tivoli Auto Services offers expert repairs and maintenance to get your vehicle back in top condition. Whether it’s a suspension issue or tyre damage, our skilled technicians are here to help.
Didn’t See That Coming! The Single-Car Crash Culprit Drivers Hit More Than Any Other
A study by the AA has found that one in ten single-vehicle crashes involve hitting a wall, making walls the most common objects struck in such accidents. Despite advances in safety technology, such as reversing cameras and parking sensors, these collisions remain prevalent.
The AA’s Accident Assist programme, which provides help during a crash, has revealed that even minor accidents can significantly increase insurance costs. With car insurance premiums rising, avoiding these costly mistakes is more important than ever.
Don’t let a minor accident turn into a major expense. Tivoli Auto Services offers expert repair services to get your car back on the road quickly and affordably. Whether you’ve had a run-in with a wall, kerb, or pothole, our skilled technicians are here to help.
At Tivoli Auto Services, we are committed to providing professional vehicle maintenance and repair services to keep you safe on the road.
Drive with confidence, knowing that Tivoli Auto Services has your back.
We hope you enjoyed this month’s Tivoli News Update in August 2024.