2021 has been a very negative year for ITVs and Road Safety, since according to the latest data, absenteeism in mandatory inspections has doubled in relation to previous periods.
The pandemic has generated an added problem on Spanish roads, as reported by the Spanish Association of Collaborating Entities of the Administration in the Technical Inspection of Vehicles (AECA-ITV).
And it is that in 2021 absenteeism when passing the mandatory review for vehicles registered in Spain has doubled, going from 20 to 40% in the last 12 months. Something worrying considering the data produced by a study carried out at the Carlos III University, which reveals that ITV inspections prevent 539 fatalities every year and more than 12,000 injured.
“Reviews do uncover hidden problems that can lead to a fatal road accident”
Guillermo Magaz, president of AECA-ITV, stressed that passing the ITV is not only a legal obligation, but is also “An exercise in social co-responsibility”, since the preventive work carried out “ensures that all vehicles that circulate on public roads are in good condition and comply with both safety and environmental regulations.”
Thanks to this exercise of responsibility, “drivers ensure that their vehicles have been inspected and are in driving condition, thus reducing the risk of possible traffic accidents »Magaz added.
The DGT asks for responsibility
The General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) has supported the appeal made by AECA-ITV, stating that “the good condition of a vehicle is not always enough to prevent traffic accidents, but the truth is that reviews do uncover hidden issues that can lead to a fatal accident on the road. ‘
According to the DGT report Main figures on road accidents in Spain in 2020, “There is a relationship between the age of the vehicle involved in the accident and the state of its technical inspection”.
In the case of passenger cars, the percentage that suffers an accident increases significantly over the years: from 7% when the car is between 5 and 9 years old to 15% when it is over 15. In vans and trucks up to 3,500 kg, the percentages are 10% with 5 and 9 years and 25% when they pass 15.
The ITV in 10 steps and the fine for not passing it
The Technical Inspection of Vehicles has been regulated since 1985 and is mandatory for all of them since 1987. Since then, it has been adapting to the various technological developments that have occurred in the automotive industry with the aim of improving road safety.
AECA-ITV summarizes ITV in this short video.
It should be remembered that passing the ITV is a legal obligation, so the fines for not complying with it go from € 200 (expired or unfavorable ITV) to € 500 (negative). It could also involve immobilization and removal of the vehicle.
In addition, in the event of a claim, the vehicle insurance coverage is lost.