Health and Safety

General Vehicle Checks

Take special care that lights, brakes, steering, exhaust system, seat belts, demisters, wipers and washers are all working.

• lights, indicators, reflectors, and number plates must be kept clean and clear,
• windscreens and windows must be kept clean and free from obstructions to vision,
• lights must be properly adjusted to prevent dazzling other road users. Extra attention needs to be paid to this if the vehicle is heavily loaded,
• ensure your seat, seat belt, head restraint and mirrors are adjusted correctly before you drive,
• ensure that items of luggage are securely stowed,

Tyres

Check tyre pressure sweekly, before your journey, when tyres are cold. Warm or hot tyres may give a misleading reading. To check the recommended tyre pressure level for your vehicle, refer to the manufacturer's information, that can be found in the vehicle manual/log book, on a label or a plate inside the driver's door, inside the glove box or inside the flap to the fuel filler cap. Alternatively, drivers can find the information from their repair workshops. Tyres should also be free from cuts and other defects.

• Cars, light vans and light trailers must have a tread depth of at least 1.6 mm across the central three-quarters of the breadth of the tread and around the entire circumference.
• Motorcycles, large vehicles and passenger-carrying vehicles must have a tread depth of at least 1 mm across three-quarters of the breadth of the tread and in a continuous band around the entire circumference.
• Be aware that some vehicle defects can attract penalty points.

Fluid Levels

Check the fluid levels in your vehicle at least weekly.

• Engine oil,
• Engine coolant,
• Windscreen washer fluid.