@hollydolly - thanks for the detail on the MOT. I've lived in states where there was an inspection and like now, in states where there is no inspection.
But even in Arkansas where there is no inspection, I have seen evidence where state troopers will stop a driver and cite him/her for broken/cracked windshields, glass that is too dark (they have a measuring device), license plate lights that are burned out, emissions (saw that especially in Utah), etc. While there may not be an inspection, drivers and owners are not exempted from citations if their equipment is so bad it gets the attention of law enforcement.
I spent almost 15 years in Germany, and I'm familiar with the very stringent TÅ°V inspection system. Given the relatively small area in which presumably millions of cars have to operate in Germany and in the UK, having such a stringent inspection system is apparently something drivers have to put up with.
I am not convinced that a similar system here in the States would be welcome, and certainly not on the national level. Constitutionally, such a system is prohibited (10th Amendment). New York (a Rust Belt State) is already tougher than I'd like to see it.
Overall, we will find dirtbags, slobs, and irresponsible people doing stupid stuff and we will find that anywhere. There is a point, however, where implementing entire legal systems to address these things is contraindicated, IMHO.
