2:37 pm, September 11, 2014
A SOMERSET used car salesman, who pleaded guilty to an offence of supplying a car in a dangerous condition, received a £500 fine and was ordered to pay costs and compensation totalling £2350.75.
Peter James Thorner trading as PT Car Sales, Leighton Lane, Evercreech, was sentenced on September 9 at Yeovil Magistrates Court for an offence under the Road Traffic Act 1988 for supplying a Citroen Picasso in an unroadworthy condition to a member of the public.
The court heard how Thorner advertised the vehicle on eBay last December describing it as having ‘some battle scars’ but adding that it ‘drives well’. A member of the public bought the vehicle from Mr Thorner for £800 but later became concerned and she was informed by another garage that the car was dangerous.
During an investigation by Devon and Somerset trading standards, the car was examined by an independent motor vehicle engineer who reported serious faults in the steering system and concluded that ‘the vehicle was in a dangerous condition at the time of supply’ to the complainant.
During sentencing, magistrates commented that Thorner ‘should take more care in future’.
Deputy leader of Somerset County Council, David Hall, said: ‘We try to offer support and advice to local business, but sometimes it is necessary to take matters like this to court. Pre-sale checks should have highlighted these dangerous defects.’
The costs and compensation order included £500 for the victim in the case.
Nationally, Citizens Advice says second-hand motors continue to be the most complained-about issue and they assisted with 14,405 used car problems in England and Wales between October 2012 and September 2013.
