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151. Seat belt
A seat belt is a restraint system designed to hold a vehicle occupant securely in their seat during sudden braking or a collision. It helps reduce the risk of the occupant striking the vehicle interior or being thrown from the vehicle.
A seat belt should fit firmly across the body, with the lap section positioned low across the hips and the shoulder section across the chest. It should not be twisted, placed behind the back or used in a way that reduces its protective effect.
Wikimedia.org • Jusmar • CC0
Why is wearing a seat belt important?
A seat belt restrains the occupant during sudden deceleration or a collision, helping prevent contact with the vehicle interior and reducing the risk of being thrown from the vehicle.
🔗 nhtsa.gov • US NHTSA, air bags as supplemental protection
🔗 nhtsa.gov • US NHTSA, seat belts and occupant protection
🔗 bosch-mobility.com • Bosch, electronic stability program, ABS and traction-control functions
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 99–102, restraints; national guidance example
Do airbags replace the need for a seat belt?
No. Seat belts and airbags are designed to work together. An airbag does not replace the restraint provided by a correctly worn seat belt.
🔗 nhtsa.gov • US NHTSA, air bags as supplemental protection
🔗 nhtsa.gov • US NHTSA, seat belts and occupant protection
🔗 bosch-mobility.com • Bosch, electronic stability program, ABS and traction-control functions
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 99–102, restraints; national guidance example
152. Child restraints
Child restraints are safety systems designed to protect children travelling in vehicles. They include rear-facing and forward-facing child seats and booster seats that position and restrain a child according to their size and the restraint system's specifications.
A child restraint should be suitable for the child and vehicle, installed according to the manufacturer's instructions and secured correctly on every journey. Rear-facing restraints must never be placed in front of an active frontal airbag.
Wikimedia.org • Pieter Kuiper • CC BY-SA
Can a rear-facing child seat be placed in front of an active airbag?
No. A rear-facing child restraint must not be used on a seat with an active frontal airbag because deployment of the airbag can seriously endanger the child.
🔗 nhtsa.gov • US NHTSA, air bags as supplemental protection
🔗 nhtsa.gov • US NHTSA, seat belts and occupant protection
🔗 bosch-mobility.com • Bosch, electronic stability program, ABS and traction-control functions
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 99–102, restraints; national guidance example
153. Head restraints
Head restraints, also called headrests, are vehicle safety devices designed to limit the rearward movement of an occupant's head relative to the body during a collision. They help reduce the risk of injuries to the neck and cervical spine, particularly in rear impacts.
An adjustable head restraint should be positioned so that it supports the back of the head rather than the neck and is as close to the head as practical. Drivers and passengers should adjust the restraint to their body size before travelling.
Wikimedia.org • BrendelSignature • CC BY-SA
Are head restraints part of passive safety?
Yes. Head restraints are passive safety devices because their main purpose is to reduce injury when a collision occurs rather than to prevent the collision itself.
🔗 nhtsa.gov • US NHTSA, air bags as supplemental protection
🔗 nhtsa.gov • US NHTSA, seat belts and occupant protection
🔗 bosch-mobility.com • Bosch, electronic stability program, ABS and traction-control functions
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 99–102, restraints; national guidance example
154. Airbag
An airbag is a vehicle safety device that rapidly inflates during certain collisions to help reduce the risk of an occupant striking the steering wheel, dashboard, doors or other parts of the vehicle interior. Vehicles may have frontal, side, curtain or other types of airbags.
Airbags form part of a supplemental restraint system (SRS) and are designed to work together with seat belts rather than replace them. Occupants should sit correctly, wear their seat belts and follow the vehicle manufacturer's instructions concerning airbags and child-restraint systems.
Wikimedia.org • Transport For NSW • CC BY-SA
What is an airbag?
An airbag is an inflatable vehicle safety device designed to help protect occupants during certain types of collision.
🔗 nhtsa.gov • US NHTSA, air bags as supplemental protection
🔗 nhtsa.gov • US NHTSA, seat belts and occupant protection
🔗 bosch-mobility.com • Bosch, electronic stability program, ABS and traction-control functions
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 99–102, restraints; national guidance example
How does an airbag work?
Sensors detect collision conditions and, when the system determines that deployment is required, the airbag inflates extremely quickly to provide additional protection between the occupant and parts of the vehicle interior.
🔗 nhtsa.gov • US NHTSA, air bags as supplemental protection
🔗 nhtsa.gov • US NHTSA, seat belts and occupant protection
🔗 bosch-mobility.com • Bosch, electronic stability program, ABS and traction-control functions
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 99–102, restraints; national guidance example
Does an airbag replace a seat belt?
No. Airbags are supplemental restraints and are designed to work together with seat belts. Occupants should always wear their seat belts where required.
🔗 nhtsa.gov • US NHTSA, air bags as supplemental protection
🔗 nhtsa.gov • US NHTSA, seat belts and occupant protection
🔗 bosch-mobility.com • Bosch, electronic stability program, ABS and traction-control functions
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 99–102, restraints; national guidance example
155. ABS
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is an active safety system that helps prevent a vehicle's wheels from locking during hard braking. It automatically adjusts braking pressure at individual wheels so that they continue to rotate sufficiently to maintain directional control.
When ABS operates, the driver may feel rapid pulsing or vibration through the brake pedal. The driver should normally maintain firm braking pressure and continue steering towards a safe path rather than repeatedly releasing and reapplying the brake.
Wikimedia.org • Chris828 • CC0
What does ABS do?
ABS helps prevent the wheels from locking during heavy braking. By controlling wheel slip, it helps the driver retain steering control while braking strongly.
🔗 nhtsa.gov • US NHTSA, air bags as supplemental protection
🔗 nhtsa.gov • US NHTSA, seat belts and occupant protection
🔗 bosch-mobility.com • Bosch, electronic stability program, ABS and traction-control functions
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 99–102, restraints; national guidance example
Does ABS always reduce braking distance?
No. The main purpose of ABS is to prevent wheel lock and help maintain vehicle control. Actual stopping distance still depends on speed, tyres, road surface, weather and other conditions.
🔗 nhtsa.gov • US NHTSA, air bags as supplemental protection
🔗 nhtsa.gov • US NHTSA, seat belts and occupant protection
🔗 bosch-mobility.com • Bosch, electronic stability program, ABS and traction-control functions
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 99–102, restraints; national guidance example
156. Esp
ESP (Electronic Stability Program), also known as Electronic Stability Control (ESC), is an active safety system designed to help prevent a vehicle from skidding or losing directional control. It compares the driver's intended direction with the vehicle's actual movement and can intervene when instability is detected.
ESP can automatically brake individual wheels and, depending on the vehicle, reduce engine power to help bring the vehicle back towards the intended path. The system operates within the limits of tyre grip and cannot overcome excessive speed or very slippery conditions.
Wikimedia.org • Chris828 • CC0
What does ESP do?
ESP helps maintain vehicle stability when it detects that the vehicle is beginning to deviate from the driver's intended direction. It can selectively brake individual wheels and may reduce engine power to help restore control.
🔗 nhtsa.gov • US NHTSA, air bags as supplemental protection
🔗 nhtsa.gov • US NHTSA, seat belts and occupant protection
🔗 bosch-mobility.com • Bosch, electronic stability program, ABS and traction-control functions
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 99–102, restraints; national guidance example
Can ESP prevent every skid?
No. ESP can assist in maintaining stability, but it cannot overcome the physical limits of tyre grip. Excessive speed, worn tyres, ice or other very slippery conditions can still cause a vehicle to lose control.
🔗 nhtsa.gov • US NHTSA, air bags as supplemental protection
🔗 nhtsa.gov • US NHTSA, seat belts and occupant protection
🔗 bosch-mobility.com • Bosch, electronic stability program, ABS and traction-control functions
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 99–102, restraints; national guidance example
157. Traction control system
Traction Control System (TCS) is an active safety system that helps prevent the driven wheels from spinning excessively during acceleration. When the system detects loss of traction, it can reduce engine power, apply braking to one or more wheels or use a combination of both.
Traction control is particularly useful when accelerating on wet, icy, snowy or loose surfaces. It helps the vehicle use the available tyre grip more effectively but cannot create grip where little or none is available.
Wikimedia.org • Chris828 • CC0
What does traction control do?
Traction control detects excessive wheel spin during acceleration and intervenes to help the driven wheels regain grip. Depending on the vehicle, it can reduce engine power or apply braking to individual wheels.
🔗 nhtsa.gov • US NHTSA, air bags as supplemental protection
🔗 nhtsa.gov • US NHTSA, seat belts and occupant protection
🔗 bosch-mobility.com • Bosch, electronic stability program, ABS and traction-control functions
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 99–102, restraints; national guidance example
What is the difference between traction control and ESP?
Traction control primarily limits wheel spin during acceleration. ESP or ESC has a broader function and helps stabilise the vehicle when it begins to deviate from the driver's intended direction. The systems commonly share wheel-speed sensors and braking components.
🔗 nhtsa.gov • US NHTSA, air bags as supplemental protection
🔗 nhtsa.gov • US NHTSA, seat belts and occupant protection
🔗 bosch-mobility.com • Bosch, electronic stability program, ABS and traction-control functions
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 99–102, restraints; national guidance example
158. Helmet
A helmet is protective headgear designed to reduce the risk and severity of head injuries during a collision or fall. Different types of helmets are designed for motorcycles, mopeds, bicycles and other activities and may be subject to specific safety standards.
Whether wearing a helmet is compulsory depends on the country, vehicle category, rider and sometimes age. A helmet should be suitable for its intended use, correctly fitted and securely worn so that it can provide the protection for which it was designed.
Wikimedia.org • Stefania Anghelea • CC BY-SA
What is a helmet?
A helmet is protective headgear designed to reduce the risk and severity of head injury if a rider falls or is involved in a collision.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rule 59, cycle equipment; national guidance example
🔗 chp.ca.gov • California Highway Patrol, motorcycle safety and helmets; California example
🔗 nsw.gov.au • NSW Government, bicycle safety equipment; NSW helmet rule
🔗 service-public.gouv.fr • French Service Public, mandatory bicycle equipment; child helmet example
Are bicycle helmets compulsory everywhere?
No. Some countries require helmets for all cyclists, others only for particular age groups or types of bicycle, and some recommend them without making them compulsory.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rule 59, cycle equipment; national guidance example
🔗 chp.ca.gov • California Highway Patrol, motorcycle safety and helmets; California example
🔗 nsw.gov.au • NSW Government, bicycle safety equipment; NSW helmet rule
🔗 service-public.gouv.fr • French Service Public, mandatory bicycle equipment; child helmet example
Do speed pedelecs require a special helmet?
They may. Because speed pedelecs can travel considerably faster than ordinary bicycles, some countries require an approved moped helmet or a bicycle helmet satisfying additional requirements.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rule 59, cycle equipment; national guidance example
🔗 chp.ca.gov • California Highway Patrol, motorcycle safety and helmets; California example
🔗 nsw.gov.au • NSW Government, bicycle safety equipment; NSW helmet rule
🔗 service-public.gouv.fr • French Service Public, mandatory bicycle equipment; child helmet example
159. Bicycle helmet
Abicycle helmet is protective headgear designed to reduce the risk and severity of head injuries if a cyclist falls or is involved in a collision. It normally consists of an impact-absorbing liner, an outer shell and a retention strap that keeps the helmet securely on the head.
A bicycle helmet should fit correctly, sit level on the head and be securely fastened. A damaged helmet should be replaced because its protective performance may have been reduced even when the damage is not immediately visible.
Wikimedia.org • Ildar Sagdejev • CC BY-SA
Is wearing a bicycle helmet compulsory everywhere?
No. Helmet requirements vary between countries and may also depend on the cyclist's age or the type of bicycle being used. Riders should check the rules that apply where they are cycling.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rule 59, cycle equipment; national guidance example
🔗 chp.ca.gov • California Highway Patrol, motorcycle safety and helmets; California example
🔗 nsw.gov.au • NSW Government, bicycle safety equipment; NSW helmet rule
🔗 service-public.gouv.fr • French Service Public, mandatory bicycle equipment; child helmet example
160. Hands-free
Hands-free refers to using a telephone or communication system without holding the device in the hand. Hands-free operation can use the vehicle's built-in system, a headset, earphones, voice control or a phone secured in an appropriate holder.
Hands-free operation reduces the need to physically handle a device, but a conversation or interaction can still distract the driver. Drivers should therefore minimise device use and keep their attention on the road.
Wikimedia.org • Benoît Prieur • CC0
What does hands-free mean while driving?
Hands-free means operating a communication function without holding the device. It can use an integrated vehicle system or another locally permitted method. A headset, earphones or a mounted phone are not automatically legal in every jurisdiction, and hands-free use can still distract.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 159–169, observation; national guidance example
Does hands-free use allow you to hold the phone?
No. Holding a telephone while calling is not hands-free use. Whether handheld or mounted-device use is legally permitted depends on the traffic rules of the country.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 159–169, observation; national guidance example
161. Smartphone
A smartphone is a mobile electronic device that combines telephone, messaging, internet, navigation, camera and application functions. When used in traffic, a smartphone can provide useful functions such as navigation or hands-free communication but can also create significant visual, manual and mental distraction.
Drivers should avoid handling or looking at a smartphone while driving. Where its use is permitted, the device should be positioned and operated in accordance with local traffic rules and without interfering with safe control of the vehicle.
Wikimedia.org • D'Vaughn Bell • CC BY-SA
Why is smartphone use dangerous while driving?
Using a smartphone can take the driver's eyes off the road, hands away from the controls and attention away from traffic. Reading messages, typing or selecting apps can therefore significantly increase distraction.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 159–169, observation; national guidance example
Is hands-free smartphone use completely safe?
No. Hands-free operation removes the need to hold the device but conversations, navigation changes and other interactions can still distract the driver.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 159–169, observation; national guidance example
162. GPS
GPS (Global Positioning System) is a satellite-based positioning and navigation system that allows a compatible device to determine its location. In vehicles, GPS navigation can combine positioning information with digital maps to calculate routes and provide visual or spoken directions.
Drivers should preferably set their destination before starting the journey and avoid unnecessary interaction with the navigation system while driving. GPS directions are advisory and should never be followed when they conflict with traffic signs, road rules or actual road conditions.
Wikimedia.org • ines s. • CC BY
What does GPS do in a vehicle?
A GPS receiver helps determine the vehicle’s position from satellite signals. Navigation software combines that position with digital maps to calculate routes and give directions. GPS positioning and the map or routing information are separate parts of the system.
Should you program a GPS while driving?
It is safer to enter the destination and adjust the route before starting the journey. If significant changes are needed, stop in a safe and permitted place rather than becoming distracted while driving.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 159–169, observation; national guidance example
163. Brake
A brake is a vehicle system used to reduce speed, bring the vehicle to a stop or keep it stationary. Most road vehicles use friction brakes at the wheels, while electric and hybrid vehicles may also use regenerative braking to recover energy while slowing down.
The braking system must remain in good working condition. Worn brake components, overheating, mechanical faults or reduced tyre grip can increase braking distance and reduce the driver's ability to control the vehicle safely.
Wikimedia.org • Andrea Volpato • CC BY-SA
Can brakes become less effective when they overheat?
Yes. Prolonged or repeated heavy braking can cause brake fade, reducing braking effectiveness. On long descents, appropriate gear selection and engine braking can help reduce excessive use of the service brakes.
🔗 hella.com • HELLA, brake-fluid function, MIN/MAX, leak/wear checks
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Annex 6, brakes and steering; national guidance example
164. Handbrake
A handbrake, commonly called the parking brake, is a braking system used to keep a stationary vehicle from moving after it has been parked. Traditional systems use a hand-operated lever, while modern vehicles may use a foot-operated or electronic parking brake.
The parking brake should be applied securely whenever the vehicle is parked, particularly on a slope. It operates separately from the normal service brake so that the vehicle can remain stationary even when the driver is absent.
Wikimedia.org • CC BY-SA
Should you use the handbrake every time you park?
Yes. The parking brake should normally be applied whenever the vehicle is parked so that it remains securely stationary. Selecting an appropriate gear or transmission position provides additional security but does not replace the parking brake.
🔗 hella.com • HELLA, brake-fluid function, MIN/MAX, leak/wear checks
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Annex 6, brakes and steering; national guidance example
165. Brake fluid
Brake fluid is a hydraulic fluid used in many vehicle braking systems to transmit force from the brake pedal through the hydraulic system to the brakes at the wheels. It must withstand high temperatures and maintain suitable hydraulic properties for reliable braking.
The brake-fluid level and condition should be checked according to the vehicle manufacturer's instructions. Only the specified type of brake fluid should be used, because incompatible or contaminated fluid can impair braking-system performance.
Wikimedia.org • Frettie • CC BY
What does brake fluid do?
Brake fluid transmits hydraulic pressure from the driver's brake input to the braking mechanisms at the wheels, allowing the vehicle to slow or stop.
🔗 hella.com • HELLA, brake-fluid function, MIN/MAX, leak/wear checks
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Annex 6, brakes and steering; national guidance example
What does a low brake-fluid level mean?
A low level can indicate wear, a leak or another brake-system problem. Follow the handbook’s warning instructions and have the cause checked, rather than merely topping up. If braking is affected or a stop/brake warning appears, stop safely and arrange appropriate help.
🔗 hella.com • HELLA, brake-fluid function, MIN/MAX, leak/wear checks
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Annex 6, brakes and steering; national guidance example
166. Tyres
Tyres are the rubber components fitted around a vehicle's wheels that provide contact with the road. They transmit braking, acceleration and steering forces and play an important role in vehicle stability and road holding.
Tyres should have sufficient tread depth, correct pressure and no serious damage or excessive wear. Drivers should use tyres that are suitable for the vehicle and regularly check their condition, particularly before long journeys or driving in difficult weather.
Wikimedia.org • Ambiguous • CC BY
Why are tyres important for road safety?
Tyres are the vehicle's contact with the road and transmit the forces required for steering, acceleration and braking. Their condition and available grip therefore directly affect vehicle control.
🔗 michelin.co.uk • Michelin, tyre sidewall markings and sizing
🔗 michelin.co.uk • Michelin, winter tyres, conditions and markings
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Annex 6, tyres and pressures; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 228–231, snow and ice; national guidance example
Should tyres on the same axle match?
Requirements vary between countries, but tyres fitted to the same axle should be compatible in dimensions, construction and performance. National rules may impose specific matching requirements.
🔗 michelin.co.uk • Michelin, tyre sidewall markings and sizing
🔗 michelin.co.uk • Michelin, winter tyres, conditions and markings
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Annex 6, tyres and pressures; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 228–231, snow and ice; national guidance example
167. Tyre code
A tyre code is the series of letters and numbers marked on a tyre's sidewall that identifies important characteristics such as tyre width, aspect ratio, construction, wheel diameter, load capacity and speed rating. A typical example is 205/55 R16 91V.
Drivers should use tyres whose specifications are suitable for the vehicle. The required tyre sizes and ratings can normally be found in the vehicle handbook, certificate of conformity or other manufacturer information.
Wikimedia.org • F l a n k e r • CC BY
What does a tyre code such as 205/55 R16 mean?
205 indicates the nominal tyre width in millimetres, 55 is the aspect ratio between sidewall height and tyre width, R indicates radial construction and 16 indicates the diameter of the wheel rim in inches.
🔗 michelin.co.uk • Michelin, tyre sidewall markings and sizing
🔗 michelin.co.uk • Michelin, winter tyres, conditions and markings
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Annex 6, tyres and pressures; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 228–231, snow and ice; national guidance example
What other markings can appear on a tyre?
Tyres can carry additional markings indicating approval, manufacturer information, production date, suitability for winter conditions, reinforced construction or other technical characteristics. The exact markings depend on the tyre type and applicable standards.
🔗 michelin.co.uk • Michelin, tyre sidewall markings and sizing
🔗 michelin.co.uk • Michelin, winter tyres, conditions and markings
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Annex 6, tyres and pressures; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 228–231, snow and ice; national guidance example
168. Winter tyres
Winter tyres are tyres designed to provide improved traction and braking performance in cold weather, snow and other winter conditions. Their tread pattern and rubber compound are designed to remain effective at lower temperatures and provide better grip than ordinary summer tyres in appropriate winter conditions.
Winter tyres can be identified by markings on the sidewall. The 3PMSF symbol, showing a snowflake inside a three-peaked mountain, indicates that the tyre has met specified performance requirements for severe snow conditions.
Wikimedia.org • A7N8X • CC BY-SA
Are winter tyres compulsory everywhere?
No. Some countries require winter tyres during particular months or whenever winter conditions occur, while others have no general requirement. Drivers travelling abroad should check the rules of every country on their route.
🔗 michelin.co.uk • Michelin, tyre sidewall markings and sizing
🔗 michelin.co.uk • Michelin, winter tyres, conditions and markings
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Annex 6, tyres and pressures; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 228–231, snow and ice; national guidance example
169. Tyre pressure
Tyre pressure is the amount of air pressure inside a vehicle's tyre. Correct tyre pressure helps the tyre maintain its intended shape and contact with the road and is important for handling, braking, tyre wear and fuel consumption.
Tyre pressure should be checked regularly and adjusted to the pressure specified by the vehicle manufacturer. The recommended pressure can vary according to the vehicle, tyre size and load, and the front and rear tyres may require different pressures.
Wikimedia.org • JEG14 • CC0
Why is correct tyre pressure important?
Correct tyre pressure helps provide predictable handling, braking and tyre wear. Incorrect pressure can reduce performance, increase tyre wear and increase fuel consumption.
🔗 michelin.co.uk • Michelin, tyre sidewall markings and sizing
🔗 michelin.co.uk • Michelin, winter tyres, conditions and markings
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Annex 6, tyres and pressures; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 228–231, snow and ice; national guidance example
Should tyre pressure be checked regularly?
Yes. Tyres gradually lose air over time, so their pressure should be checked regularly and before demanding or long journeys. The pressure should be adjusted to the manufacturer's recommended value.
🔗 michelin.co.uk • Michelin, tyre sidewall markings and sizing
🔗 michelin.co.uk • Michelin, winter tyres, conditions and markings
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Annex 6, tyres and pressures; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 228–231, snow and ice; national guidance example
170. Snow chains
Snow chains are traction devices fitted around vehicle tyres to improve grip on roads covered with snow or ice. They are especially useful on steep or mountainous roads where ordinary tyres may not provide sufficient traction.
Snow chains should be fitted according to the vehicle and chain manufacturer's instructions, normally on the driven wheels. They should be removed when they are no longer needed because driving with chains on clear roads can damage the tyres, chains and road surface.
Wikimedia.org • Domitori • CC BY-SA
Are snow chains compulsory everywhere in winter?
No. Requirements vary between countries and roads. Some countries require chains to be carried during certain periods or fitted when indicated by traffic signs or winter conditions, while others impose no general requirement.
🔗 michelin.co.uk • Michelin, tyre sidewall markings and sizing
🔗 michelin.co.uk • Michelin, winter tyres, conditions and markings
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Annex 6, tyres and pressures; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 228–231, snow and ice; national guidance example
171. Bicycle tyre
A bicycle tyre is the rubber tyre fitted around a bicycle wheel and provides contact between the bicycle and the road or other riding surface. Its tread, pressure, width and construction affect grip, rolling resistance, comfort and handling.
Bicycle tyres should be properly inflated and regularly checked for wear, cuts, cracks, embedded objects or other damage. The appropriate tyre type and pressure depend on the bicycle, rider, load and riding conditions.
Wikimedia.org • Ivan Radic • CC BY
Why are bicycle tyres important for safety?
Bicycle tyres provide the grip needed for steering and braking and help absorb irregularities in the road surface. Worn, damaged or incorrectly inflated tyres can reduce control and increase the risk of a puncture or loss of grip.
🔗 michelin.co.uk • Michelin, choosing bicycle tyres, road/off-road tread and intended use
Do all bicycles use the same type of tyre?
No. Choose tyres suited to the bicycle and riding conditions. Road and off-road tyres make different compromises between rolling resistance, grip and puncture protection; mountain-bike tyres typically have more pronounced tread for rough or muddy ground.
🔗 michelin.co.uk • Michelin, choosing bicycle tyres, road/off-road tread and intended use
172. Continuous track
Continuous track is a vehicle propulsion system in which a continuous belt or chain runs around a series of wheels or rollers instead of the vehicle travelling on conventional road wheels. It is commonly used on construction machinery, agricultural vehicles, military vehicles and other machines that need good traction on soft or uneven ground.
Continuous tracks spread the vehicle's weight over a relatively large contact area, which can improve traction and reduce ground pressure. Tracks may be made from metal, rubber or a combination of materials, and their suitability for use on public roads depends on the vehicle and applicable regulations.
Wikimedia.org • Ingolfson • CC0
Can tracked vehicles travel on normal roads?
Some can, subject to the local vehicle and road-use requirements. For example, British rules allow qualifying tracked agricultural vehicles on roads only with rubber or other composite tracks that do not damage the surface. Registration, driver entitlement and other vehicle restrictions must also be checked.
🔗 legislation.gov.uk • UK legislation, special-type vehicles and rubber tracks
🔗 gov.uk • DfT, tractors and tracked vehicles on public roads
173. Gross Vehicle Weight
Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) is the actual total weight of a vehicle at a particular moment, including the vehicle itself, driver, passengers, fuel, luggage and other cargo. It changes as people or goods are added or removed.
GVW should not be confused with Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM), which is the maximum permitted total weight specified for the vehicle. The actual gross vehicle weight must not exceed that permitted maximum.
What does Gross Vehicle Weight include?
The actual laden mass includes the vehicle, occupants, fuel, luggage, cargo and equipment being carried. Be careful with the term Gross Vehicle Weight: some authorities, including British guidance, use GVW for a maximum authorised weight rather than the actual mass at that moment. Check the definition on the document.
🔗 ecfr.gov • US 49 CFR 571.3, GVWR/GCWR manufacturer definitions; US example
🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, vehicle weights explained, MAM/GVW and down-plating; British example
Why is Gross Vehicle Weight important?
Actual loaded mass and the permitted ratings both matter. Stay within applicable total, axle, tyre and combination limits, and secure and distribute the load correctly. Do not assume that a figure labelled GVW always means the vehicle’s current measured mass.
🔗 ecfr.gov • US 49 CFR 571.3, GVWR/GCWR manufacturer definitions; US example
🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, vehicle weights explained, MAM/GVW and down-plating; British example
174. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) is the maximum total weight at which a vehicle is designed or approved to operate when fully loaded. It includes the vehicle itself together with the driver, passengers, fuel, luggage, cargo and other equipment carried by the vehicle.
GVWR is a fixed maximum value and should not be confused with Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW), which is the vehicle's actual weight at a particular moment. The actual loaded weight of the vehicle must not exceed its permitted maximum.
What does GVWR include?
GVWR is the loaded-weight rating specified by the manufacturer for a single vehicle. It covers the vehicle and everything carried, including occupants, fuel and cargo. The legal mass allowed on a particular journey may also be limited by registration, axle, road or other rules.
🔗 ecfr.gov • US 49 CFR 571.3, GVWR/GCWR manufacturer definitions; US example
🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, vehicle weights explained, MAM/GVW and down-plating; British example
Why is GVWR important?
GVWR helps identify the manufacturer’s loading limit and can be relevant to vehicle and licensing classifications. Check every applicable limit: a lower plated, axle, tyre or road limit may also apply. Staying below one total rating does not excuse an overloaded axle or an insecure load.
🔗 ecfr.gov • US 49 CFR 571.3, GVWR/GCWR manufacturer definitions; US example
🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, vehicle weights explained, MAM/GVW and down-plating; British example
175. Cargo
Cargo is the goods, materials, equipment or other items carried by a vehicle or trailer. Cargo can range from personal luggage and bicycles to commercial goods, machinery or bulk materials.
Cargo must be positioned and secured so that it cannot shift, fall from the vehicle, interfere with the driver's visibility or affect vehicle stability. The total load must also remain within the vehicle's permitted weight and axle-load limits.
Why must cargo be secured?
Unsecured cargo can move during acceleration, braking or cornering and can affect vehicle stability or fall onto the road. Proper securing protects the occupants, other road users and the cargo itself.
🔗 ecfr.gov • US 49 CFR 571.3, GVWR/GCWR manufacturer definitions; US example
🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, vehicle weights explained, MAM/GVW and down-plating; British example
Can cargo extend beyond a vehicle?
In some circumstances it can, but national rules normally limit how far a load may project beyond the front, rear or sides of a vehicle and may require projecting loads to be specially marked.
🔗 ecfr.gov • US 49 CFR 571.3, GVWR/GCWR manufacturer definitions; US example
🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, vehicle weights explained, MAM/GVW and down-plating; British example