Liverpool Suspends PHV After Dangerous Tyre Found in City Centre

A private hire vehicle (PHV) licensed in Knowsley has been suspended by Liverpool City Council Licensing officers after it was found operating in Liverpool city centre with a dangerously worn tyre. The front near-side tyre was so severely worn that the internal cords were exposed, posing a serious risk to passengers and road users. The driver now faces further legal action.

UK law mandates that vehicle tyres must have a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre and around the full circumference. Failure to meet this standard is illegal and can result in fines of up to £2,500 per tyre and three penalty points on the driver's licence. For taxis and private hire vehicles, enforcement officers conduct regular checks to ensure compliance with safety regulations. Similar cases of tyre violations have led to significant penalties, such as a private hire driver fined £1,000 and banned for tyre violations.

Safety Risks and Compliance Checks

Tyres with exposed cords indicate extreme wear and significantly increase the risk of blowouts, which could lead to accidents. High-mileage vehicles, including taxis and PHVs, require frequent tyre inspections to maintain safety standards.

A Liverpool City Council Licensing spokesperson stated on social media:

"Liverpool Licensing Enforcement Officers discovered a Knowsley PHV being used in the City Centre with this front near side tyre fitted. The vehicles PHV licence was suspended, and the driver to be reported - this was an accident waiting to happen, so please check your tyres!"

The licensing authority has urged drivers to conduct regular inspections of their tyres to avoid enforcement action and ensure passenger safety.