Starting a Driving Shift? Here Are 8 Important Things to Check
A well-maintained and TfL-compliant PCO car helps you avoid costly fines. It also keeps you on top of your weekly PCO car hire costs by minimising interruptions to the rides.
A small detail ignored before starting your driving shift can sometimes turn into a major problem later and cause downtime. Taking a few minutes to check your car before you start driving can help you complete more daily rides.
In this article, we will mention daily checks that you should do before starting your shift to have a smooth day ahead.
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Article Highlights
Checklist before starting your shift:
- Legal documents
- Tyres
- Lights
- Fluids, and more.
Legal Documents
Keep your valid insurance, MOT, and road tax documents in the car at all times. Driving with expired documents can result in fines and affect your licence status.
You should also properly display your PCO driver badge during your working hours. Wear it around the neck or clip it to your clothes. It should have your photo, licence number, and expiry date on the front.
Make sure the badge’s details are easily readable as well. If the badge is damaged or blurry, request a new one from TfL.
Also Read: Essential Tools PCO Drivers Should Have in Their Car
Tyres
Well-maintained tyres and brakes are important for vehicle safety. Check if the tyres have the right air pressure before starting your shift. Low air pressure in tyres causes more rolling resistance, which can increase fuel consumption and cost.
Your tyres should also be in good condition. Worn-out tyres affect the car’s grip and increase the stopping distance, especially in rain. This can put you at a higher risk of accidents.
If the tyres are worn out beyond the legal limit, ask your PCO car rental company to replace them
We at Fleeto offer well-maintained PCO cars for hire to minimise the risk of breakdowns. Every car in our fleet is regularly serviced, so it delivers maximum comfort and reliable service to passengers. Whether you’re driving for Uber, Bolt, or any other platform, all our cars are TfL-compliant and road-ready. Contact us to learn more.
Lights and Indicators
Check that headlights, brake lights, indicators, and hazard lights are working properly. It will improve your visibility or warn other drivers. TfL officers can fine you if you drive with faulty lights.
Windscreen and Wipers
If your windscreen has cracks or chips, ask your car provider to replace it. Driving with a cracked windscreen can be risky because it can shatter easily during a bump or collision. Besides, it’s illegal and can get you fined.
You should also check that the wipers are working correctly and the car has enough screen wash to last for your working hours.
Fluids
Check your car’s coolant and brake fluid levels regularly. The coolant prevents overheating, while the brake fluid prevents rust and improves braking performance. By keeping these fluids topped up, you can minimise safety risks and enjoy smoother rides.
EV Charge
If you drive an EV, charging it during driving hours can cause downtime. The best practice is to charge your vehicle at home overnight. A full charge is usually enough to last for an 8-10 hour driving shift. If you don’t have a home charging setup, plan your charging stops in breaks so they don’t clash with your driving hours.
Read Also: How to Make Your EV Battery Last Longer During Winter
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Interior and Exterior Cleanliness
A clean car leads to a pleasant passenger experience. So, always check your vehicle from inside and out. The seats and mats should be clean, remove clutter left from the last shift, and use a mild air freshener to get rid of foul smells. If the car looks dusty, clean it from the outside as well. A quick wash or wipe-down is usually enough to remove any dirt or debris.
Technology and Equipment
PCO drivers use their phones to navigate and communicate with passengers. Keep your phone charged and mount it correctly in your line of sight so it doesn’t take your focus away while driving.
Having a charger in your car is important as well to avoid a dead battery. If your car has a dashcam, confirm that it’s working and recording properly to protect yourself against claims or disputes.
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Final Thoughts
Doing the checks mentioned above only takes a few minutes, but it can save you costly downtime during your shifts. Remember that your car is your livelihood. Keep it clean, compliant, and ready to go.
Frequently Asked Questions
What documents should PCO drivers keep when driving?
Valid documents related to insurance, MOT, and tax should be in your car at all times. You should also display your PCO badge properly to minimise the risk of fines.
Can PCO drivers use bus lanes?
PCO drivers cannot use bus lanes. The lanes are monitored through cameras, and using bus lanes during operating hours can lead to a fine or penalty points on the licence.
Can I get fined if my car’s wipers aren’t working?
You can get fined if a TfL officer stops you for a spot check and finds your car’s wipers aren’t working. Always check them before starting your shift to be safe.
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