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Ask The Mac
By Tom Griffith, Manager of Compliance Information
Fitted Up
Q. Our vehicle was fitted with tyre size 152/148. The fitter has replaced one of the tyres with a different size, 150/146. Is this acceptable?
A. The figures you refer to are related to the weight capacity of the tyre, the tyre fitted has less capacity than the one originally fitted.
Tyre load capacity must meet at least the minimum capacity for the axle weight. If not, and the tyre is obviously overloaded, DVSA would issue a PG9 immediate prohibition against the vehicle, a £100 fixed penalty notice, and the offence also considered a most serious infringement. Regardless of any of the action described, for GB licenced vehicles, an investigation will be carried out to establish any shortcomings in the operator’s system and the outcome will be reported to the Traffic Commissioner.
Beware of the dog
Q. One of our drivers has asked if they can bring their pet dog into their vehicle cab but we don’t think this is a good idea. Is there anything we can reference to inform our driver?
A. Although there are no specific rules from preventing you carrying your dog in the vehicle, it is essential that the dog is secured in a safe manner. Paragraph 57 of the Highway Code states ‘When in a vehicle make sure dogs or other animals are suitably restrained so they cannot distract you while you are driving or injure you, or themselves, if you stop quickly. A seat belt harness, pet carrier, dog cage or dog guard are ways of restraining animals in cars.’ Although the Highway Code refers to cars the guidance would apply to all vehicles. Your vehicle insurance could also be invalidated if you have let your pet roam free. If by doing so, it is later proven that it had contributed to causing an accident, then an insurance company could be well within their rights not to pay out on a claim.
Published On: 04/04/2024 15:20:00
