Chloe Lowe was left gobsmacked when undercover police pulled her over and informed her that her MOT had been overdue for two months. She received a £100 fine, which she claimed she could not afford because she had just spent £60 on pyjamas at Primark and had her nails done.
In a video shared on social media, Lowe said: "What the f*** is MOT? What the? I thought it came out of my bank every month?" Her excuse for not knowing what an MOT was: "I'm just a girl." This remark infuriated many online, who accused her of setting women back and being irresponsible.
Public reaction and legal consequences
In the comments, one person pointed out that she "got lucky" to only receive a £100 fine, adding that you can "have your car seized for that." Another fumed: "Nobody should be allowed to get their license and own a car without knowing what an MOT is. The test that ensures your car is literally safe on the roads. The fine should be bigger and points in my opinion."
Others wondered how Lowe passed her theory test, as MOT-related questions are part of the certification. "Come on, girl, you're letting the side down," one woman fumed, with others saying she was "setting women back" by using this as an excuse.
Helpful advice amid criticism
She did receive a kind and helpful comment from one user, however, who shared: "Find a garage that sends you a reminder a couple of weeks before. Hope this helps, unlike most of the unhelpful comments."
Why an MOT is important
Driving without an MOT is a legal requirement in the UK for cars over three years old. The test checks critical components such as brakes, lights, tyres, and seatbelts to ensure the vehicle is roadworthy. Without a valid MOT, insurance can be invalidated, leaving the driver personally liable for damages in an accident. Additionally, vehicle tax cannot be renewed without a valid MOT certificate. The fine for driving without an MOT can be up to £1,000, and the vehicle can be seized.
