Tyre Offences

Driving with defective tyres solicitors

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If you have tyres which do not meet the minimum standards of tyre tread depth or pattern, you are at risk of 3 penalty points for each defective tyre.

 

Understanding the Law

 

In England and Wales, tyre safety is a critical aspect of vehicle maintenance and road safety. The laws governing tyre offences are outlined in the Road Traffic Act 1988 and the Motor Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986.

 

These regulations set specific standards for tyre condition and maintenance, and failing to comply with these standards can result in severe penalties.

 

Common Tyre Offences

 

Some of the most common tyre-related offences include:

 

Worn Tyre: Using tyres that do not meet the minimum tread depth requirement of 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre.

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Damaged Tyres: Using tyres with visible damage such as cuts, bulges, or exposure of the ply or cord.

 

Incorrect Tyre Pressure: Operating a vehicle with tyres that are not inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure.

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Mixed Tyres: Using a mix of different types of tyres on the same axle (e.g., mixing radial and cross-ply tyres).

 

These offences can compromise vehicle safety and increase the risk of accidents.

 

Penalties for Tyre Offences

 

The penalties for tyre offences are designed to ensure that all vehicles on the road meet safety standards.

 

Common penalties include:

 

- A fine of up to £2,500 per defective tyre

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- 3 penalty points on your driving licence per defective tyre

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- Possible disqualification from driving if multiple offences are detected

Four bald tyres on the same vehicle could place you at risk of 12 points and a possible totting up/driving ban. This means you could be disqualified from driving.

 

For commercial vehicles, additional penalties and sanctions may apply, including the possibility of the vehicle being taken off the road until the tyres are brought up to standard.

 

Defending Against Tyre Offences

 

If you are charged with a tyre offence, it is crucial to seek legal advice immediately. An experienced lawyer can assess the specifics of your case and explore possible defences.

 

These might include:

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Proving that you did not know and had no reasonable cause to suspect that the tyre was defective. This defence can be applied in situation where a person relies on their employer’s assurance that a vehicle is in good repair or where sons and daughters drive their parents’ cars.

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Proving that the tyres were within legal limits at the time of the alleged offence

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Demonstrating that any damage or wear occurred after the vehicle was last inspected

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Highlighting any procedural errors in the inspection or citation process

 

Get in touch with Joe Rawlings Today

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If you have been accused of a tyre offence, don't face it alone. Contact Joe Rawlings today for expert legal assistance.

 

Joe specialises in defending defective tyre offences and have a high success rate in this regard.