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Posted on the 12th March 2025 in PHTM News
WARWICK PRIVATE HIRE VEHICLE INSPECTIONS FIND FAULTS WITH THREE GIVEN OFFENCE NOTICES
Warwick District Council (WDC) conducted a series of private hire vehicle inspections, revealing a range of safety and legal issues, including one driver being breathalysed and three receiving traffic offence notices.
The operation, conducted in partnership with the DVSA and Warwickshire Police, aimed to ensure the safety and legality of PHVs in the district.
Out of 48 vehicles inspected, several were found to have serious faults. One vehicle was immediately prohibited after inspectors discovered exposed cords on two tyres, leading to a traffic offence notice for the driver. Another vehicle was prohibited due to tyre tread below the legal minimum and a defective brake light, also resulting in a traffic offence notice.
"One driver was also breathalysed after alcohol was found in the rear of the vehicle. The driver blew zero," reported the council.
Further inspections revealed a vehicle with defective brakes, and three others received delayed prohibition notices from the DVSA, requiring them to rectify issues and pass another MOT within 10 days.
Ten other vehicles were found with minor licensing infringements that will be followed up by licensing officers.
Additionally, vehicles equipped to carry wheelchair passengers were inspected to ensure both safety and driver competence in assisting wheelchair users.
The inspections will also lead to conduct points and referrals to a licensing and regulatory panel for some vehicle owners.
Cllr Jim Sinnott, portfolio holder for safer, healthier and active communities, emphasised the importance of the inspections.
"Taxi drivers play an important role in providing transport to those that need it, so it's vital that they keep their vehicles safe and legal, protecting both their passengers and the wider community," he stated.
"The council takes its licensing responsibilities seriously and will not hesitate to take action to guarantee the public's safety."
He also thanked the 48 drivers who attended the inspection, recognising their cooperation in maintaining high safety standards.
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