Vehicle Safety Checks
It is important that you carry out vehicle safety checks at least once a week. DTC Driving School will you to always carry out a vehicle safety check when you drive someone else’s car. In the eyes of the law, the driver is always held responsible for the vehicle they are driving, not the owner. A good method of remembering a list of vehicle checks is the acronym FLOWERY.
F = Fuel
L = Lights
O = Oil
W = Water
E = Electrics
R = Rubber
Y = You
Vehicle safety checks – FUEL
Although most petrol stations are open 24 seven, it is always wise to check the fuel level. Firstly, it will help you to plan a break in your journey. Secondly, if you’re driving a friend vehicle, you will be able to record approximately how much fuel is in the vehicle so that you can return it back to the same level. This is not only courteous but may also prevent disputes and bad feelings. Furthermore, if your driving somebody else’s vehicle, make sure you know what fuel type to put in. You do not want to end up putting the wrong fuel as this can be very costly. It is also important to know how to open the fuel cap. Many modern cars these days, have some sort of switch in the vehicle itself.
Vehicle safety checks – LIGHTS
It is a legal requirement that all lights fitted to the outside vehicle are working. The headlights must be working even if you’re driving on a bright sunny day. The reverse lights must be working even if you’re driving along the motorway. It is advisable to keep a bulb kit with you. The cost only a couple of pounds. If you are stopped by the police for a faulty light, the officer may issue you with a fixed fine of £60 along with three of points on your driver’s license.
Vehicle safety checks – OIL
Checking the oil level in a vehicle is vital. Driving on low oil can cause the engine to overheat and eventually seize. A seized engine will cost thousands to repair. Many people are under the impression that the oil warning light will show up and warn them that the oil is low. For local driving, this warning will usually be sufficient. However, if you are driving at high speeds along the motorway, the engine can overheat and sees within 5 to 10 minutes. You may not be able to reach a garage during this time.
Vehicle safety checks – WATER
Water for the car means checking both the engine coolant level and the windscreen washer fluid. The coolant should be kept between the maximum and the minimum levels. The coolant will prevent the engine from overheating. The windscreen washer fluid can finish extremely quickly especially if you are driving on a wet day along with a motorway journey. This is because spray from larger vehicles will make your windscreen dirty. It is against the law for you to have no water in the windscreen washer reservoir.
Vehicle safety checks – ELECTRICS
Electrics are an important part of safety checks. Horn, wipers, demisters, radio are all part of electrics. You can get a fine and penalty points for having faulty wipers or horn which does not work. Faulty wipers, horn or the radio not work can be a sign that other electric may have also failed. All car these days are fitted with a CPU (The brain of the car) with can all sorts of serious problems related to the handling of the car.
Vehicle safety checks – RUBBER
Both Tyres and wipers come under this section. Tyres should have no cuts or bulges. There should be at least 1.6 mm of tread depth across the central three-quarters of the breadth of the tyres, and brown the entire outer circumference of the tyre.
You should underestimate the importance of good tyres the only contract between you and the road. In wet weather, the tyre tread grooves will help to remove water between your tyres and the road surface which will mean the car can brake, steer and accelerate properly.
The tyres and the air inside them will support you and the entire vehicle. Having correct tyre pressure is vital for your safety on the road. Underinflated tyres will affect handling and grip on the road.
Vehicle safety checks – YOU
When it comes to vehicle safety, it’s important to remember that the vehicle is nothing without the You. You the driver are legally responsible for the vehicle. Ask yourself, “Am I fit to drive?” Take in to account your eyesight, medication, alcohol, tiredness etc. If you require training in any aspect of driving, call DTC UK on 07799-886380.
Check the MOT status of your vehicle.
