Inside Vehicle Safety Checks Before Driving

Once you have completed the outside vehicle checks, it is important to carry out the inside vehicle safety checks. These checks help ensure the vehicle is safe, secure and ready to drive.

Check the General Condition Inside the Vehicle

Start by checking the overall condition of the vehicle interior. Loose items on the passenger seat, rear seats or dashboard can become dangerous if you brake suddenly or are involved in a collision.

Any items carried in the vehicle should be stored securely, ideally in the boot, behind the seats or in the footwell, where they are less likely to move around or cause injury.

Check Lights and Indicators

Before driving, make sure all vehicle lights are working correctly. This includes:

• Headlights
• Brake lights
• Indicators
• Hazard warning lights

If you are checking the lights on your own, you can use reflections from a wall, window, building or another vehicle to help confirm they are working.

Check Dashboard Warning Lights

When you start the vehicle, check the dashboard for any warning lights. Some lights will briefly appear when the ignition is switched on, but they should go out once the vehicle starts.

Never ignore warning lights. If you are unsure what a warning means, check the vehicle handbook or seek advice before driving.

Check Seat Belts and Mirrors

Check that all seat belts are in good condition with no cuts, fraying or damage. If a seat belt is damaged, the vehicle should not be driven until it has been repaired or replaced.

Before setting off, adjust your wing mirrors and rear-view mirror so you have a clear view around the vehicle.

Check Wipers, Washers and Controls

Make sure the windscreen wipers and washers are working correctly. You should also understand how to use the vehicle’s dashboard controls, including lights, demisters, heating and ventilation.

If driving at night or in poor weather, check your headlight settings. Lights that are set too high can dazzle other drivers, while lights set too low may limit your visibility.

Mobile Phones and Distractions

Mobile phones should be securely mounted or safely stored before driving. If hands-free use is allowed by your employer, make sure it is connected before you set off.

Never hold or use a mobile phone while driving. You should also avoid loose cables, drinks or objects that may distract you or interfere with safe driving.

Safety Equipment in the Vehicle

Check that important safety equipment is present, accessible and in good condition. This may include:

• First aid kit
• Fire extinguisher
• High-visibility clothing
• Tyre pressure gauge
• Tyre tread depth gauge
• Tyre pump or inflator

High-visibility clothing should be stored somewhere accessible so it can be put on before leaving the vehicle in an emergency.

Check Driver Fitness

Vehicle safety is not only about the car or van. The driver must also be fit to drive.

Before setting off, check that you:

• Feel well and alert
• Are wearing any required glasses or contact lenses
• Are not too tired to drive safely
• Have taken suitable rest breaks where needed

If you feel unwell, tired or unsafe to drive, you should stop and reassess before continuing.

Monitor the Vehicle During the Journey

Vehicle checks should not stop once the journey begins. Continue to monitor how the vehicle feels and responds while driving.

If you suspect a problem, such as a flat tyre, unusual noise or warning light, pull over in a safe place and investigate the issue.

Safe driving depends on both a roadworthy vehicle and a fit, alert driver.