http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/l...re/7788278.stm

Here is proof, if needed, that laws need to be introduced forcing 'weekend' mechanics to have any modification work carried out on their vehicle to be checked by professional mechanics before the vehicle is allowed back on the road!
I am a professional auto technician and am shocked at some of the death traps that are brought into me for their annual MOT.
I am in the UK and understand that the only regulations in the USA are that you have an annual smog test. Is that true? That's not much use if there's a rusty brake pipe about to burst or a gearbox mounting about to drop off is it?
I am really suprised that a country that supposes itself to be so advanced in many areas doesn't take the safety of its drivers more seriously.
Rant over.....But I would be interested in the input of others over this issue.
Seasons wishes to all.
Graham.

 

Actually in the US there are some very strict safety guidelines in place. Also, this happened in the UK, I don't know what you're trying to say about the US when this happened across the pond from us. It is very tragic, but I'm sure if his truck was in that bad of shape he was not getting it registered.

Another thing, this guy is clearly an idiot. First and foremost-he was doing 50-60 mph and pulled off the road. This shows something about his judgement on its own. Second, A "bracket close to the rear axle" snapped. I'm thinking that's got to be something to do with the rear links or something similar, showing he does NOT know how to weld.

 

Despite our lack of inspections, believe it or not you don't see broke down vehicles on every street. By the time a vehicle reaches the point of needing major mechanical repair the electronics have usuallybeen going on the fritz for a while and your average joe has had to give up on the vehicle. I for one would fight any further inspection nonsense to the bitter end, I don't appreciate the idea of being regulated based on what some idiot "might" do. But if you live in a socalist country I suppose that would sound like a good idea.

 

You can go to any DMW website for any state and you will find the guidlines to which all US vehiclesmust meet. The story you posted is clearly an opperator error, that guy was an idiot no matter where he's from. The US does not have regulations on every little thing. It my belief that the government should have VERY LITTLE effect on the lives of the people. They should do their job, and have little involement in our lives. Because guess what, I dont want some old guy telling me what I can and cant do with my money, car, or home. So that being said, if you (or me) does something retarded with my car and I have an accident that kills people, its my problem, I face the punishment laid out for me in the court of law. People need to learn how to take care of themselfs, because the government is not your mommy.

Thank you.
[/rant]