Unroadworthy

Describing a vehicle that is not safe or fit to be driven on public roads due to mechanical defects, structural issues, or failure to meet legal safety standards. A unroadworthy vehicle poses a significant risk to the driver, passengers, and other road users. Factors contributing to unroadworthiness can include faulty brakes, worn tires, malfunctioning lights, structural damage, or emissions exceeding permissible limits. Its condition renders the vehicle potentially dangerous, prompting the need for repair or removal from the road. Inspection and assessment play a critical role in determining this status. The vehicle is often banned from public roads and may receive citations.

Unroadworthy meaning with examples

• The old minivan, with its bald tires and failing brakes, was deemed unroadworthy after the mechanic's inspection. The driver was advised to immediately cease operation and address the critical safety concerns, before it put other drivers and passengers at risk. Further use of the vehicle was, therefore, considered illegal and dangerous until repairs.
• Following the collision, the impact had damaged the chassis significantly, rendering the car unroadworthy. The body shop confirmed the vehicle could not be safely repaired to road standards, with no guarantees offered, due to the structural compromise of the car. Insurance declared it a write-off as the repair costs exceeded the vehicle's market value, resulting in scrapping.
• During a routine roadside check, the police officer found that the driver's truck had a broken headlight and excessively worn suspension, confirming the vehicle was unroadworthy. The truck was impounded, and the driver issued with a hefty fine. Only after necessary repairs, and another inspection, would it be possible to return to public roads.
• Due to the failing emissions test and severe rust damage, the vintage sports car was officially declared unroadworthy, despite the owners emotional attachment. The collector was initially devastated, because the cost of a rebuild or full restoration would be extensive. He hoped the situation could be salvaged with a costly and time-consuming restoration.