Driving without a bumper

[wigs_1]

Is it illegal to drive without the rear bumper fitted?

To my mind driving without the front bumper is a bit iffy because you can hit pedestrians and there will be sticky-out bits that will hurt them...

On the back there aren't any sticky out bits and you'd have to be going backwards to hit someone...

Anyone know the answer....?

Cheers, Chris

 

[vincenz]

Its the shape exposed metal that is the offence, it would be an MOT fail therefore illegal.

The car wouldnt be approved for road use without a bumper.

You would be charged under section 59

 

[JasM]

What's wrong with your rear bumper?

 

[wigs_1]

Cheers Vincenz

Bumper is no longer fitted !

Took it off to start some rust repairs before winter so that the car doesn't get eaten by the salt. Unfortunately it has rained all day so I've not achieved much.

Its not a big deal removing/fitting however it is a snug fit and if I keep removing/fitting I risk further scratches/paint damage.
Can use the girlfriends car tomorrow but may need to re-build for Tuesday because the MOT has run out on the motorbike......

Chris

 

[Tiff]

Its the shape exposed metal that is the offence, it would be an MOT fail therefore illegal.

The car wouldnt be approved for road use without a bumper.

You would be charged under section 59

Not true. If a bumper has been removed, and has no sharp projections etc that can injure pedestrians,then it wouldn't fail an MOT. If there are sharp edges that are caused by corrosion or damage, then it would fail

This is taken from the testers manual.

"Body Condition
This part of the examination applies to all vehicles
4. Examine the bodywork for excessive corrosion or damage resulting in sharp edges which are likely to cause injury.
Reasons for rejection: A sharp edge or projection, caused by corrosion or damage, which renders the vehicle dangerous to other road users including pedestrians."

 

[KillerHERTZ]

You will be fine, ive had to do it in the past, as you can see from my car, nothing sticks out:-

Remember though, one tiny bump from another driver could destroy your car (bend the chassis)