One in six motorists confess to driving without a valid MoT – with 50 per cent of those driving unlawfully for more than a month, according to new research from car care company, motoreasy.

Yet despite this, 93% of motorists acknowledge they would be breaking the law by driving without an MoT. If caught, the 22 per cent of men and 10 percent of women who forget could face a fine of up to £1,000.

Should they be involved in an accident, they could risk being even further out of pocket for their absentmindedness. Many motor insurance policies will stipulate the vehicle must be roadworthy and legal. If the policyholder has an accident, involving no one else, the insurers could significantly reduce or decline entirely to recompense any losses.

"People are increasingly looking for an easier life - almost nine in 10 motorists would support a system whereby they automatically receive a reminder that their MoT is due – similar to the car tax reminders," says motoreasy managing director, David Gerrans.