CARS with dodgy headlights will be stopped by the police throughout the winter because of the scale of the problem.

A campaign was staged all over the Island in early November in a joint initiative between the Roads Policing Unit and the Vehicle Testing Centre targeting vehicles with lighting defects. 

The campaign highlighted the issue of vehicles driving with faulty lights and 230 vehicles were stopped. Fifty of the vehicles had lighting defects which were mainly for one light not working. However, there was also one arrest for drink driving.

“This is about safety on our roads as much as it is about condition of vehicles,” said Inspector Mark Britton. “The Constabulary will continue, in partnership with the DOI, to enforce this area of the law.

“Checking your vehicle only takes a few moments and replacing a light bulb is not expensive or difficult. Most places that sell such bulbs will also fit them for you if you ask. Don’t be left in the dark.”

Mark Pattison of the Vehicle Testing Centre added, “Roadside checks prove effective in getting rid of ‘One Eyed Monsters’ as well as identifying other vehicle defects such as worn tyres. We are arranging with the Police to conduct some more checks during December.

“Whilst there is no MOT in the Isle of Man, it is the responsibility of drivers to ensure their vehicles are maintained to a good road worthy standard to help keep themselves and others safe.

“These matters are important all year round but become particularly vital in the more severe winter driving conditions.  ‘One-Eyed Monsters’ seriously reduce the visibility of your vehicle on the road as well as impairing your own forward vision.”