Unroadworthy Condition of Vehicles and Its Impact on Traffic Accidents

Abstract

The traffi c safety on roads has signifi cantly increased over the past 20 years. Unifi ed European Union regulations
have contributed to a better traffi c safety regardless of the number of vehicles that increased by more than 4 times in the
past 20 years.
In spite of the increased traffi c density, the number of traffi c fatalities is decreased by approximately 25%.
The traffi c fl ow has considerably increased, which points to the fact that the road traffi c safety is getting in importance.
Continuous improving and amending of regulations and rulebooks, together with the most recent active and passive
security systems of modern vehicles, with a view to maintaining the safety of vehicles throughout their lifetime, it is necessary
to conduct regular roadworthiness tests, with continuous vehicle maintenance and care.
Recognizing this need, the Council of the European Union issued Directive 77/143/EEC as early as in 1977 on the approximation
of the laws of the Member States relating to road worthiness tests for motor vehicles and their trailers.