New regulation from the Sunday 17th April 2016, Minister for Transport, Paschal Donohoe TD, announced a new Fixed Charge Notice (FCN) offence for motorists who drive with defective or worn tyres on their vehicle.
As a driver, we should already know that it is an offence to drive a vehicle with defective or worn tyres. However from the Sunday 17th April, it is now be an offence that will carry a fixed charge (or fine) of €80, with two penalty points endorsed on the licence. Or four penalty points following conviction in court. The new regulations has taken effect over the last 10 days.
As drivers we must have awareness of the hazards of driving with tyres that are not in roadworthy condition. The only things between the vehicle & the road are the tyres. So we must make sure that they are in good condition.
A study from the RSA (Road Safety Authority) reported that vehicle factors played a role in one in eight fatal collisions across the period 2008 to 2012. Defective tyres were the most significant factor, representing almost two thirds of all vehicle factors identified as contributing to a collision and to the deaths of 71 people on Irish roads in the past five years.
As Drivers it is our responsibility to ensure that our vehicle is roadworthy and in good working condition. None of us can predict what will happen on our roads. We must expect the unexpected.
If you are unsure how to check your tyres, as an ADI I can help you to go though this, build up your confidence & help you to stay safe on the road, for further help you can contact us on Mob 086 044 0157 or email francis@castletownsom.com.
Thank for reading our blog.
Castletown School of Motoring
ADI number 35 371
Francis
