What defines a road-worthy vehicle?

A road-worthy vehicle is defined as one that is in good running condition, meaning it is safe and reliable to operate on public roads. This encompasses various aspects, such as the vehicle's mechanical functions, tire conditions, braking systems, and overall maintenance. Such a vehicle should provide safe transportation for occupants and other road users, ensuring that it meets safety standards set by regulatory agencies.

While a vehicle being free of deficiencies is an important aspect of being road-worthy, aiming solely for the absence of problems does not inherently guarantee that it is in good running condition. High speeds do not necessarily define safety; a vehicle can be fast but still poorly maintained, making it potentially unsafe. Similarly, meeting emissions standards is crucial for environmental reasons but does not encapsulate the complete idea of a vehicle being road-worthy, especially if the vehicle may have other safety or maintenance issues. The key focus remains the overall safety and operational reliability of the vehicle, ensuring it can perform as intended on the road.