A private hire vehicle (PHV) operating in Liverpool has been suspended after licensing officers discovered a dangerously worn tyre during routine inspections in the city centre.
The vehicle, licensed in Knowsley, was found with a front near-side tyre so worn that its internal cords were exposed, posing a serious safety hazard. As a result, Liverpool City Council Licensing officers immediately suspended the PHV, with the driver now facing further enforcement action.
Under UK law, all vehicle tyres must have a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre and around its full circumference. Failure to comply can lead to a fine of up to £2,500 and three penalty points per tyre. For taxis and private hire vehicles, regular inspections are conducted to ensure passenger safety and roadworthiness.
Tyres with exposed cords indicate extreme wear, significantly increasing the risk of blowouts and loss of vehicle control. Licensing authorities have urged all drivers—particularly those in the high-mileage taxi and PHV industry—to carry out frequent tyre checks to avoid potential enforcement actions and, more importantly, prevent dangerous accidents.
A Liverpool City Council Licensing spokesperson highlighted the incident on social media, stating:
“Liverpool Licensing Enforcement Officers discovered a Knowsley PHV being used in the City Centre with this front near-side tyre fitted. The vehicle’s PHV licence was suspended, and the driver is to be reported. This was an accident waiting to happen, so please check your tyres!”
Authorities continue to stress the importance of vehicle safety compliance to protect passengers, drivers, and other road users.
