1.11 Pre-Driving Checks
Is your car in safe working order?
Before you drive, take some time to check that your car is safe to be on the road. Some
of the things you should look at are:
n Tyres
Tyre tread should be at least 1.5 mm deep (about the thickness of a match head)
over all parts of the tyre surface that normally comes in contact with the road.
Smooth tyres can cause you to skid and they can be very dangerous in wet conditions.
Tyres should be inflated to the vehicle manufacturers’ specifications. This is
particularly important when you are driving long distances or when you are
carrying a full load. Check the tyre pressure when your tyres are cold;
n Brakes
Have your brakes checked regularly by a qualified person. Faulty brakes will
significantly increase your stopping distance;
n Steering
Ensure that your steering assembly is in good condition because faulty
steering can cause your car to wander on the road;
n Lights
Make sure that all lights, including headlights, brake lights, indicator lights and
parking lights are operating correctly. If your lights are not working properly, other
drivers may not be able to see you or may not understand your intentions;
n Horn
Only use your horn to warn other road users of danger – it is an offence to
use it for other purposes;
n Windscreen and windscreen wipers
A dirty windscreen is dangerous. It is easier to see through a clean windscreen,
especially when driving into the sun, at night or in the rain. You should replace faulty
or damaged windscreen wipers because they prevent you from seeing clearly when it
is raining; and