Vehicle Safety Checks 

Carrying out a few quick and easy checks on your vehicle will ensure that it is safely equipped to drive. 

P.O.W.D.E.R.S check 

A quick P.O.W.D.E.R.S check done on a regular basis will help to keep you safe, your vehicle in good running order and hopefully reduce the need for expensive repair bills: 

Petrol 

• Keep your tank at least one quarter full to avoid running out on your journey. This will help you to avoid breaking down on a busy road or motorway and potentially putting yourself and others at risk. 

Oil 

• Maintaining the correct oil level is essential to prevent your engine from seizing up and breaking down. 

Water 

• Check the level of coolant. 
• To ensure you have good visibility, always keep your screen wash topped up so you can clear any debris or dirt off your windscreen. 
• Keep a sealed bottle of water in your vehicle for emergencies. 

Damage 

• Check the vehicle for damage, including wiper blades. 

Electrics 

• Check all lights are in working order – they are not only essential for you, they are also essential for other drivers to understand how you are driving your vehicle and how you intend to manoeuvre. 

Rubber 

• It is a legal requirement that each of your tyres has a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm. 
• The minimum tread depth for motorcycle tyres in the UK is 1.0mm. Visually check both walls of each tyre to make sure there are no cracks starting to form due to lack of use or age. 
• You could receive a £2,500 fine and three penalty points per tyre if you have illegal tyres. 
• Driving with underinflated or overinflated tyres can adversely affect your braking distance, steering, fuel efficiency and lifetime of your tyres.  

Self 

• Make sure you are well rested and are not under the influence of alcohol or drugs. 
• Plan your route and plan breaks during your journey. 

Tyre Safety Video: