Survey: Only 57% of Latvian Drivers Regularly Have Their Car Checked by a Specialist
In Latvia, 57% of drivers regularly have their vehicle checked by a specialist, down from 62% last year. The figures come from the Carlsberg 0.0 Responsible Driving Index survey.
The share of Latvian drivers who regularly take their car for servicing and inspection by a knowledgeable specialist is shrinking. This year 57% of respondents say they do so, compared with 62% last year. The data come from the Responsible Driving Index, a study by the non-alcoholic beer brand Carlsberg 0.0.
Other habits
Almost a third of drivers, or 31%, monitor their car's technical condition themselves, while 22% link caring for their vehicle to a considered driving style and habits. The share of those who think the mandatory technical inspection by the Road Traffic Safety Directorate (CSDD) is enough has edged up to 5% from 3% last year. The group remains small, but it raises the question of whether drivers fully distinguish between the state-mandated inspection and regular maintenance.
Differences by gender and location
Women choose regular servicing by a specialist slightly more often than men: 58% versus 55%. Men, in turn, are considerably more likely to monitor their car's condition themselves: 39% of men and 21% of women.
In Riga, 62% of drivers regularly take their car to a specialist. In the state cities of Liepāja, Rēzekne and Ventspils the figure is 59%, in small towns 55%, and in rural areas 52%.
Expert comment
Jānis Vanks, head of the Safe Driving School, notes that a car's technical condition also changes between mandatory inspections. Brakes, tyres, suspension and other parts wear gradually, and drivers do not always notice it in daily driving. He says regular checks help detect a problem in time, before it affects handling or requires a much costlier repair. The CSDD inspection is an important part of the road safety system, but concern for a car's condition should not stop there.
About the survey
The study was carried out with the Safe Driving School and the research centre Norstat. In September this year, 1,000 Latvian residents aged 18 to 74 were surveyed. Its aim is to promote responsible driving and understanding of road risks and how to reduce them.
