Daily vehicle checks

Anyone who is either a professional or an occupational driver will have been trained in the importance of completing regular checks of the vehicle to ensure that it is roadworthy and prepared for the journey you are about to undertake.

Failing to ensure that your vehicle is in a good, roadworthy condition can lead to all sorts of issues with the police, ranging from a fixed penalty notice (fines and points) through to having your vehicle seized.

If you're driving in relation to your work, you might think that your employer is responsible for the condition of the vehicle, but this is wrong - in the eyes of the law, it is the driver who decides to drive a defective vehicle. If you have been on a Fleet Driver's course through work, part of this will include a discussion with the trainer about the importance of checking the vehicle over, and a record that you have attended this course is proof to the authorities that employees that drive for business have been educated in the need for vehicle checks.

So what are they?

Well, an easy way to think about vehicle checks is to use the FLOWERY system... and you should consider carrying out your pre-vehicle checks every time you drive a new car, or regularly enough to ensure that there can't be any problems (for example, check the oil or tyre pressures once a week unless you have reason for concern, but check fuel, lights and tyre condition daily)

Fuel

Have you got enough fuel for the journey you're intending to make, including a bit extra to allow for unexpected circumstances?

Lights

Are all the lights on the car working correctly?

Are the lenses clear so people can see them?

Are the lenses free from damage?

Oil

Has the engine got enough oil?

Water

Is there sufficient engine coolant in the header tank?

Is there plenty of window washer fluid?

Electrical

Are there any warning lights on the dashboard?

Red lights mean that the vehicle can't be driven at all, but amber lights are generally advisory. All warning lights should be investigated as soon as possible and repairs carried out

Rubber

Are the tyres correctly inflated and free of damage?

Do the wipers clear the screen properly?

Yourself

This one is often overlooked!

Are you in a fit state to drive?

Have you had any medication that might affect your driving at all?

Are you mentally alert and able to focus on driving to the best of your ability?

Nick Heath Driver Training is a multi car driver training business operating is South Cheshire and North Staffordshire. We have male and female instructors and are ORDIT and Fleet registered.

More details can be found on our website www.nickheathdrivertraining.org.uk