Safe vehicles save lives, essential road safety advice 

As part of Road Safety Week 2025 (17–23 November), Avon Fire & Rescue Service reminds drivers to not only follow legal requirements but also take proactive steps to maintain their vehicles regularly. The Service explains that well-maintained vehicles reduce the risk of fires and accidents caused by mechanical failures. Following the FLOWER guide and addressing any issues promptly can help prevent emergencies and keep everyone on the road safer. 

Following legal requirements and adopting proactive maintenance routines not only enhances individual safety but also reduces the risk of fires and accidents caused by mechanical failures. By following the FLOWER guide and addressing any issues promptly, drivers can help prevent emergencies and contribute to safer roads for everyone. 

Road safety starts with you and your vehicle. It is essential to carry out a thorough walk-around check of your vehicle before each journey. This article provides key road safety advice to help you perform these checks effectively, understand MOT regulations, and recognise how vehicle maintenance keeps everyone safe. 

Follow the FLOWER guide:

Regular and thorough vehicle inspections are vital to road safety. The FLOWER guide offers an easy-to-remember checklist that drivers should follow weekly and certainly before longer journeys: 

• Fuel: Ensure you have enough fuel to complete your trip without risk of running out unexpectedly. 

• Lights: Check all headlights, brake lights, and indicators are clean and functioning to maintain visibility and communicate intentions on the road. 

• Oil: Check oil levels when the engine is cold to prevent engine damage and maintain vehicle performance. 

• Water and fluids: Verify levels of water, power steering fluid, windscreen washer fluid, and brake fluid for safe vehicle operation. 

• Electrics: Confirm the battery is secure and connections are intact to avoid electrical failures. 

• Rubber: Examine tyre tread depth, pressure, and sidewalls. Replace tyres before they reach the legal minimum of 1.6mm tread, with experts recommending 3mm for better grip and safety. 

If any faults are found during these checks, it is crucial to take your vehicle to a qualified garage immediately. Ignoring problems can lead to serious breakdowns, accidents, or costly repairs. All risks to your safety and others’.  

Know your legal obligations and MOT testing:

In the UK, all vehicles older than three years must pass an annual MOT test to certify they meet essential roadworthiness and environmental standards. Driving without a valid MOT is against the law and can lead to prosecution, fines up to £2,500, penalty points, or even a driving ban. 

However, passing an MOT is not a substitute for regular vehicle maintenance. Many problems, such as worn brake pads or tyre issues, can arise well before your next MOT. Routine servicing and repairs by qualified mechanics help maintain vehicle safety and prevent unexpected failures. Discuss brake and tyre wear during servicing to stay informed and prevent surprises on the road. 

Avon Fire and Rescue Service’s road safety advice on vehicle maintenance:

Avon Fire and Rescue Service highlights that good vehicle maintenance goes beyond legal compliance; it is also a key fire prevention measure. Neglected vehicles are more prone to mechanical faults that can lead to dangerous fires. Drivers should be vigilant for signs like smells, leaks, or smoke and act quickly if anything seems unusual. 

The Service also recommends keeping safety equipment like a fire extinguisher accessible in the vehicle, especially on longer journeys or when driving older cars, to prepare for emergencies. 

Your role in promoting safer roads:

Safe vehicle use is a cornerstone of road safety. Following the FLOWER guide regularly and meeting MOT requirements reduces accident risks, breakdowns, and fire hazards. By staying responsible for your vehicle’s condition, you help protect all road users. 

A quick pre-journey check and timely maintenance may seem simple, but can save lives. Make vehicle safety a priority and contribute to safer roads for all. 

For more essential road safety advice and MOT testing, visit: 

• https://www.gov.uk/check-vehicle-safe