The Prince Edward Island government is implementing rules it says will make it harder for badly damaged vehicles to return to Island roads.

Cars or trucks rebuilt after being in a flood, fire, or other major accident will soon have to undergo a stricter inspection.

P.E.I. Transportation Minister Robert Vessey said about 700 so-called “salvage vehicles” make their way back onto the province’s roads every year.

He said the automotive industry is calling for tighter regulations.

“It's just that the industry kind of regulates itself and there were some vehicles that would be turned into a body shop or inspection station that would be seen that weren't fixed up probably the way they should be,” said Vessey.

Under the new rules a rebuilt car will have to be examined by a specialized inspector before it can drive on the roads.

The new rules come into effect on May 1.