A Shropshire-based car dealer has been fined £3,300 for selling an unroadworthy and dangerous vehicle via an online advertisement, after an investigation by Shropshire Council, reports the Shropshire Star.
Grant Arnold, of Eardington Manor, Bridgnorth, had advertised the car as being in “very nice” condition with good tyres and stated that it drove very well. However, when the buyer got the car, it was clear that the vehicle needed significant work to make it roadworthy.
The buyer contacted Mr Arnold, but the latter refused to take any actions to rectify the situation. The buyer was therefore left with no other option but to report the sale to Shropshire Council’s public protection team.
There are a number of legalities you have to cover when running a car dealership, and key among keeping your business, customers, stock and premises safe is your motor trade insurance. You should also have a good level of road risks insurance to cover all eventualities.
Telford Magistrates Court was told that an examination revealed the car was in a dangerous condition that was extremely difficult to control due to incorrect tyres, badly worn brakes and damaged shock absorbers. The expert examination also revealed two areas of corrosion.
Mr Arnold was subsequently fined £3,300, told to pay court costs of £3,000 and a victim surcharge of £120.
Grant Tunnadine, Investigations Team Manager for Public Protection at Shropshire Council, said: “The court has clearly recognised the failings of Mr Arnold to adequately assess and rectify the issues with this vehicle before selling it.”
Mel Price, Shropshire Council’s cabinet member, added: “Traders must take their responsibility towards their customers very seriously, and this is particularly the case when selling secondhand cars.”
