Vehicles spotted on tyres at least 10 years old could lead to regulatory action against the operator
The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has updated its Guide to Maintaining Roadworthiness, limiting the use of old tyres.
Announced during last week’s Road Safety Week, as of 23 November the DVSA will carry out follow up investigations on an operator if it finds one of their vehicles wearing a tyre more than 10 years old during a routine investigation.
If they are unable to provide an adequate explanation for using an old tyre, or their tyre management systems aren’t up to standard, the operator may face regulatory action from the Office of the Traffic Commissioner.
Earlier this year, the Department for Transport (DfT) announced a study into the safety of ageing tyres – the first publicly funded research of its kind in the UK. The report will be available in spring 2019.
This updated guide follows on from previous guidance issued by the DfT in 2013, which strongly discouraged the use of tyres over 10 years old on coaches.
Roads Minister, Jesse Norman, said: “I asked the DVSA to consider this measure as a means to tighten enforcement against the use of older and potentially dangerous tyres.
“This is an important step forward in our efforts to improve tyre safety. The DfT is continuing to work with experts to collect robust evidence on older tyres. This research will report back in the spring.”
DVSA Chief Executive, Gareth Llewellyn, added: “DVSA’s priority is to protect everyone from unsafe drivers and vehicles.
“Tyre safety is vital and DVSA has always taken strong action to protect the public from unsafe tyres of all ages.
“By changing our approach, we’re sending the message that no one should use tyres more than 10 years old.”
