BAN ON TYRES OVER 10 YEARS OLD

Tyres that are more than 10 years old will be banned under new legislation being considered by the Government as it attempts to improve road safety.

The ban is likely to arrive as early as 2020 and implemented through a change to the Road Vehicle (Construction and Use) Regulations Act 1986 later this year.

The change in law will affect operators of lorries, trucks, buses and coaches. It will include retreaded tyres and will also make it an offence to use retreads on steered axles.

The Government says it wants to improve safety for all users following the campaign organised by Frances Molloy and ‘Tyred’ after the death of her son Michael in a coach accident caused by a 19-year-old tyre in 2012.

Road Safety Minister Michael Ellis commented:

“There is increasing evidence that age affects the safety of tyres, which is why I think older tyres should not be used on large vehicles.”

The Driver and Vehicle Licencing Agency has updated its guidance on maintaining roadworthiness. It now says that tyres in excess of 10 years should not be used on the front axle of heavy goods vehicles, as well as buses and coaches.

“Maintaining vehicles to the highest standards is critical whether it’s a truck, bus, or coach,” added Alan Rhodes, Managing Director of Scania Financial Services. “So we fully support this safety initiative from the Government.

“If operators are concerned by the costs of replacing tyres and the general upkeep of older vehicles, then please don’t hesitate to come and talk to us about a contract hire agreement. These can include full repair and maintenance, with operators able to tailor inclusions within the monthly rentals, taking away the worry of unexpected or unbudgeted costs.

“If a new vehicle isn’t for you, an alternative is our AIM Hire offers on used trucks. These have repair and maintenance included for a fixed rental, ensuring you are supported and secure in the knowledge that you won’t fall foul of this new legislation.”

The Government will now consult on its proposals ahead of the proposed law changes.

If you would like to contribute to the consultation, you can click on the link to view the consultation document: Banning Tyres Aged 10 Years and Older - Consultation Document. Consultation closes on September 01, 2019.

To contact Scania Financial Services about a contract hire agreement or our AIM Hire service, call: 01908 487 561.