Traffic 2005-26

Traffic

VEHICLES (CONSTRUCTION, EQUIPMENT AND

MAINTENANCE) REGULATIONS

This version is out of date

2005-26

Subsidiary

[1958.04.01]

Regulations made or deemed to have been made under ss. 57 and 76.

VEHICLES (CONSTRUCTION, EQUIPMENT AND

MAINTENANCE) REGULATIONS

[1958.04.01]

Amending

enactments

Relevant current

provisions

Commencement

date

LN. 1986/005 r. 30(3) 30.1.1986

1986/013 rr. 2(1), 70(4), 73A, 84 1.3.1986

1986/083 r. 25 28.8.1986

1987/068 rr. 2(1), (4), 5, 6(1)(a)-(f), 6(2)(a)-(e),

7(1)(a)-(c), 8, 9(1)(a)-(g), 9(2)-(3),

10(a)-(e), 11, 13(1)(a)-(e), 10(2),

(3)(a)-(b), 16(c), 16A, 17, 17A-17H,

18, 20(1)(a), 20A, 21(1), 24(2), 27A,

28, 29A, 31, 31A, 42(2), 44(1), (3),

47(1)-(2), 48, 49(2), 49(4)(a)-(b),

49(5), 56, 61(1), 70(1)(a)-(c), 71,

72(2)(a), (3)(a)-(b), 74(1)(a)-(c),

74(2)(b), 75(1)-(2), 76(2)(d), 78(b)-

(c), 79(1)(a)-(b), (c)(i)-(ii), 80(1)-(3),

Sch.1-2

1.4.1987

1987/122 rr. 3A, 84 20.8.1987

1988/069 r. 6(2)(a) 23.6.1988

1989/101 r. 30(3) 30.11.1989

1989/104 rr. 2, 42(4), 44(4), 48 30.11.1989

1991/066 r. 68 18.4.1991

1991/211 r. 29 21.11.1991

1995/035 r. 32A 1.4.1995

1996/002 r. 16 1.3.1996

Act. 1998-44 rr. 35-54, 56-60 22.9.2000

LN. 2006/149 r. 82 7.12.2006

Act. 2007-17 r. 6(4) 14.6.2007

LN. 2009/075 rr. 2, 24(1), 24A, Sch.3 26.11.2009

Transposing:

Directive 89/459/EEC

Directive 2007/38/EC

Traffic

VEHICLES (CONSTRUCTION, EQUIPMENT AND

MAINTENANCE) REGULATIONS

This version is out of date

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Subsidiary

[1958.04.01]

ARRANGEMENT OF REGULATIONS

Regulation.

Preliminary

1. Tile.

2. Interpretation.

3. Application and exemption.

3A. Offences.

PART I.

MOTOR VEHICLES

Motor Vehicles Generally

4. Construction.

5. Ability to reverse.

6. Dimensions.

7. Oversized vehicles to be marked.

8. Weight to be marked.

9. Maximum weight.

10. Maximum weights on heavy traffic roads.

11. Weight restrictions on specified roads.

12. Restrictions on container traffic.

13. Distribution of weight.

14. Springs.

15. Tracks.

16. Condition of tyres and tracks.

16A. Maintenance of steering gear.

17. Brakes.

17A. Dual systems of operation.

17B. Vacuum or pressure braking.

17C. Motor cycle brakes.

17D. Invalid carriage brakes.

17E. Trailer brakes.

17F. Other vehicles.

17G. Parking brake.

17H. Maintenance of brakes.

18. Revoked.

19. Stop lights.

20. Direction indicators.

20A. Maintenance of direction indicators.

21. Speed indicator.

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22. Maintenance of speed indicator.

23. View to front.

24. Mirrors.

24A. Mirrors: vehicles in N

2

and N

3

categories.

25. Maintenance of glass.

26. Safety glass.

27. Windscreen wipers.

27A. Maintenance of wind-screen wiper.

28. Revoked.

29. Warning instruments.

29A. Maintenance of fuel tanks.

30. Silencers and exhaust pipes.

31. Emission of smoke, and vapours.

31A. Maintenance of vehicles so as to prevent emissions.

32. Excessive noise from faulty adjustment, etc.

32A. Restraint of loads.

33. Wings.

34. Mascots.

35 to 54 Revoked.

Special Provisions relating to Motor Cycles.

55. Sidecars on motor cycles.

PART II.

56 to 60 Revoked.

PART III.

BICYCLES.

61. Brakes on bicycles.

62. Efficiency of braking systems.

63. Exemptions.

64. Powers of police officers.

PART IV.

LAMPS AND REFLECTORS.

65. Obligatory lamps.

66. Obligatory reflectors.

67. Restriction on number and nature of lamps.

68. Flashing lights.

69. Multi-purpose lamps.

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VEHICLES (CONSTRUCTION, EQUIPMENT AND

MAINTENANCE) REGULATIONS

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[1958.04.01]

70. Position of obligatory front lamps.

71. Position of dual-purpose lamp.

72. Character of front lamp.

73. Markings of electric bulbs.

73A. Lighting during the hours of darkness.

Rear Lamps.

74. Position of obligatory rear lamps.

75. Character of obligatory rear lamps.

76. Reversing lights.

Obligatory Reflectors.

77. Position of obligatory reflectors.

78. Character of reflectors.

79. Group of reflectors.

Exceptions.

80. Vehicles drawn or propelled by hand.

81. Stationary vehicles.

82. Revoked.

83. Existing vehicles.

84. Repealed.

SCHEDULE 1

Requirements with respect to the construction, fitting and performance of

the brakes of certain motor vehicles and trailers.

SCHEDULE 2

Requirements with respect to the efficiency of the brakes of

motor vehicles.

SCHEDULE 3

Class IV mirrors

Traffic

VEHICLES (CONSTRUCTION, EQUIPMENT AND

MAINTENANCE) REGULATIONS

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Subsidiary

[1958.04.01]

Title.

1. These Regulations may be cited as the Vehicles (Construction, Equipment

and Maintenance) Regulations.

Interpretation.

2. (1) In these Regulations, unless the context otherwise requires,–

“articulated vehicle” means a motor vehicle with a trailer so attached to

the drawing vehicle that part of the trailer is superimposed on the

drawing vehicle and when the trailer is uniformly loaded not less

than 20 per cent of the weight of its load is borne by the drawing

vehicle;

“braking efficiency”, in relation to the application of brakes to a motor

vehicle at any time, means the maximum braking force capable of

being developed by the application of those brakes, expressed as a

percentage of the weight of the vehicle, including any persons (not

being fare paying or other travelling passengers) or load carried in

the vehicle at that time;

“caravan” means any structure designed or adapted for human habitation

which is capable of being moved from one place to another whether

by being towed or by being transported on a motor vehicle or

trailer, and any motor vehicle whilst being used for human

habitation;

“carriageway” means that portion of a road normally used by vehicular

traffic;

“category N2 vehicles” are motor vehicles designed and constructed for

the carriage of goods and have a maximum mass exceeding 3.5

tonnes but not exceeding 12 tonnes, and “N2 vehicles” shall be

construed accordingly;

“category N3 vehicles” are motor vehicles designed and constructed for

the carriage of goods and have a maximum mass exceeding 12

tonnes, and “N3 vehicles” shall be construed accordingly;

“container” means an article of equipment, having a volume not less than

one cubic metre, that is designed and constructed for repeated use

for the inter–modal carriage of goods by road or water and for

interchange between those forms of transport;

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“dipped beam” means a beam of light emitted by a lamp which

illuminates the road ahead of the vehicle without causing undue

dazzle or discomfort to oncoming drivers or other road users;

“direction indicator” means a device fitted to a motor vehicle or trailer

for the purpose of intimating the intention of the driver to change

the direction of the vehicle to the left or to the right;

“double-decked vehicle” means a vehicle having two decks, one of which

is wholly or partly above the other, and each deck of which is

provided with a gangway serving seats on that deck only;

“dual purposes lamp” means a lamp combining with an obligatory front

lamp an obligatory rear lamp, satisfying the requirements of these

regulations relating to obligatory front lamps and obligatory rear

lamps respectively except in so far as modified by regulation 71;

“emergency exit” means an exit which is intended to be used only in case

of emergency;

“entrance” means any aperture or space by which passengers are intended

to board the vehicle;

“equipment”, in relation to a vehicle or sidecar, does not include a

driving minor or a direction indicator;

“exit” means any aperture or space by which passengers are intended to

leave the vehicle;

“extreme rear” means the rearmost point for the time being of a vehicle

or a sidecar, inclusive of any luggage carrier and inclusive of any

tailboard or other adjustable part except when the tailboard or

adjustable part is extended whilst the vehicle is stationary and

being loaded or unloaded;

“gangway” means the space provided for obtaining access from any

entrance to the passengers’ seats or from any such seat to an exit

other than an emergency exit but does not include any space in

front of a transverse seat which is required only for the use of

passengers occupying that seat;

“gross vehicle weight”, in relation to a vehicle, means the weight of that

vehicle when fully loaded;

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VEHICLES (CONSTRUCTION, EQUIPMENT AND

MAINTENANCE) REGULATIONS

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Subsidiary

[1958.04.01]

“heavy traffic road' means any of the following roads, namely British

Lines Road; Winston Churchill Avenue; Bayside Road; Devil's

Tower Road; Catalan Bay Road; the northern end of Sir Herbert

Miles Road as far as the Gibraltar Quarry site; Corral Road; West

Place of Arms; Market Place; Glacis Road; Waterport Road; the

Viaduct; North Mole and Oueensway;

“hours of darkness’’ means the time between a quarter of an hour after

sunset and a quarter of an hour before sunrise;

“invalid carriage’’ means a motor vehicle (including a cycle with an

attachment for propelling it by mechanical power) which does not

exceed 250 kilograms in weight unladen and is adapted and used

for an invalid or invalids;

“large passenger carrying vehicle” means a motor vehicle that is

constructed or adapted to carry more than twelve passengers in

addition to the driver;

“main beam” means a beam of light emitted by a lamp which illuminates

the road over a long distance ahead of the vehicle;

“multi-pull means of operation”, in relation to a braking system, means a

device which causes the muscular energy of the driver to apply the

brakes of that system progressively as a result of successive

applications of that device by the driver;

“obligatory front lamp” means a lamp showing to the front a white light

which is required to be carried by regulation 65;

“obligatory rear lamp” means a lamp showing a red light which is

required to be carried by regulation 65;

“obligatory reflector” means a red reflector which is required to be

carried by regulation 66;

“overall length” means the length of a vehicle measured between vertical

planes at right angles to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle and

passing through the extreme projecting points thereof exclusive of–

(a) any starting handle;

(b) any hood when down;

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VEHICLES (CONSTRUCTION, EQUIPMENT AND

MAINTENANCE) REGULATIONS

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[1958.04.01]

(c) any ladder forming part of a turntable fire escape fixed to a

vehicle;

(d) any telescopic fog lamp when extended;

“overall width” means the width of a vehicle measured between vertical

planes parallel to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle and passing

through the extreme projecting points thereof exclusive of–

(a) any driving mirror;

(b) any direction indicator;

(c) so much of the distortion of any tyre as is caused by the weight

of the vehicle; and

(d) in the case of vehicles registered before the 31st day of March,

1958, so much of a swivelling window designed to allow the

driver to give hand signals as projects when opened not more

than 10 centimetres beyond the side of the vehicle:

“overhang” means the distance measured horizontally and parallel to the

longitudinal axis of the vehicle between two vertical planes at right

angles to such axis passing through the two points specified in the

following sub-paragraphs (i) and (ii) of this definition

respectively:–

(i) the rearmost point of the vehicle inclusive of–

(a) any hood when down;

(b) any ladder forming part of a turntable fire escape fixed to

a vehicle; and

(c) any luggage carrier fitted to a motor vehicle constructed

solely for the carriage of passengers and their effects and

adapted to carry not more than seven passengers

exclusive of the driver.

(ii) (a) in the case of a motor vehicle having only two axles one

of which is not a steering axle, through the centre point

of that axle; and

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VEHICLES (CONSTRUCTION, EQUIPMENT AND

MAINTENANCE) REGULATIONS

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(b) in the case of a motor vehicle having only three axles

where the front axle is the only steering axle, through a

point 10 centimetres in rear of the centre of a straight line

joining the centre points of the rear and middle axles;

and

(c) in any other case through a point situated on the

longitudinal axis of the vehicle and such that a line

drawn from it at right angles to that axis will pass

through the centre of the minimum turning circle of the

vehicle;

“oversized vehicle” means any vehicle the dimensions of which exceed

any of those set out in regulation 6(1);

“pneumatic tyre” means a tyre which complies in all respects with the

following requirements:–

(i) it shall be provided with a continuous closed chamber

containing air at a pressure substantially exceeding atmospheric

pressure when the tyre is in the condition in which it is

normally used, but is not subjected to any load;

(ii) it shall be capable of being inflated and deflated without

removal from the wheel or vehicle;

“registered” means registered under the Act;

“reversing light” means a lamp which is carried by a vehicle and shows a

white light to the rear for the purpose of reversing;

“split braking system”, in relation to a motor vehicle, means a braking

system so designed and constructed that-

(a) it comprises two independent sections of mechanism capable of

developing braking force such that, excluding the means of

operation, a failure of any part (other than a fixed member or a

brake shoe anchor pin) of one of the sections shall not cause a

decrease in the braking force capable of being developed by the

other section;

(b) the two sections are operated by a means of operation which is

common to both sections;

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VEHICLES (CONSTRUCTION, EQUIPMENT AND

MAINTENANCE) REGULATIONS

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[1958.04.01]

(c) the braking efficiency of either of the two sections can be

readily checked;

“stop light” means a light used to indicate to road users that the brakes of

a vehicle or combination of vehicles are being applied;

“stored energy”, in relation to a braking system of a vehicle means energy

(other than the muscular energy of the driver or the mechanical

energy of a spring) stored in a reservoir for the purpose of applying

the brakes under the control of the driver either directly or as a

supplement to his muscular energy;

“tail light” means, in relation to any vehicle, any lamp carried attached to

the vehicle for the purpose of showing a red light to the rear;

“wheeled”, in relation to a vehicle, means that the whole weight of the

vehicle is transmitted to the road surface by means of wheels;

“wide tyre” means a pneumatic tyre whose area of contact with the road

surface is not less than 30 centimetres in width when measured at

right angles to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle;

“works trailer” means a trailer designed for use in private premises and

used on a road only in passing from one part of any such premises

to another, or to other private premises in the immediate

neighbourhood;

“works truck” means a motor vehicle designed for use in private

premises and used on a road only in passing from one part of any

such premises to another, or to other private premises in the

immediate neighbourhood.

(2) Except where otherwise provided in these regulations a tyre shall not

be deemed to be of soft or elastic material unless the said material is either–

(i) continuous round the circumference of the wheel; or

(ii) fitted in sections so that so far as reasonably practicable no

space is left between the ends thereof,

and is of such thickness and design as to minimize, so far as reasonably

possible, vibration when the vehicle is in motion and so constructed as to be

free from any defect which might in any way cause damage to the surface of

a road.

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(3) For the purpose of these regulations a brake drum shall be deemed to

form part of the wheel and not of the braking system.

(4) For the purpose of these regulations any two wheels of a motor

vehicle or trailer shall be regarded as one wheel if the distance between the

centres of the areas of contact between such wheels and the road surface is

less than 45 centimetres.

Application and exemption.

3. (1) Except where the context otherwise requires these regulations shall

apply to wheeled traffic only.

(2) Regulations 14, 16, 24 and 29 shall not apply to road rollers.

Offences.

3A. A person in control of a vehicle who contravenes or fails to comply with

any of the provisions of these regulations, or causes or permits or suffers

any vehicle to be used in contravention of these regulations is guilty of an

offence and liable on summary conviction to a fine of £100.

PART I.

MOTOR VEHICLES (CONSTRUCTION AND EQUIPMENT)

Motor Vehicles Generally.

Construction.

4. Every motor vehicle and trailer shall be so constructed that it is either a

wheeled vehicle or a track laying vehicle.

Ability to reverse.

5. Every motor vehicle which exceeds 400 kilograms in weight unladen

shall be capable of being so worked that it may travel either forward or

backwards.

Dimensions.

6. (1) The-

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VEHICLES (CONSTRUCTION, EQUIPMENT AND

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(a) overall width of a motor vehicle or trailer shall not exceed 2.14

metres;

(b) height of a motor vehicle shall not exceed 3.65 metres;

(c) overall length of an articulated vehicle shall not exceed 6.70

metres;

(d) overall length of a motor vehicle other than an articulated

vehicle shall not exceed 6.40 metres or have a wheel base

exceeding 4.10 metres;

(e) overhang of an omnibus shall not exceed two-fifths of the

wheel base;

(f) overhang of a motor vehicle other than an omnibus shall not

exceed one half of the wheel base or 1.70 metres whichever is

the less:

Provided that–

(i) in the case of a vehicle designed for use and mainly used

for the purpose of heating a road or other like surface in

the purpose of construction, repair or maintenance, no

part of the heating plant shall be taken into account when

calculating the overhang; and

(ii) the provisions of this regulation relating to overhang

shall not apply in the case of–

(1) a motor vehicle designed for use and used

solely in connection with street cleaning, the

collection of refuse or the collection or

disposal of the contents of gullies or cesspools;

(2) a works truck; or

(3) a motor vehicle designed so that it can dispose

of the load by tipping to the rear, if the

overhang does not exceed 1.15 metres.

(2) Notwithstanding sub-regulation (1), on any heavy traffic road, the

dimensions specified in that sub-regulation may be exceeded in respect of

any motor vehicle or trailer as long as-

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(a) the overall width of that motor vehicle or trailer does not

exceed 2.50 metres or, in the case of refrigerated

superstructures of thick walled refrigerated vehicles 2.60

metres; and

(b) in the case of any motor vehicle, the overall height does not

exceed 4.20 metres; and

(c) in the case of any articulated vehicle, the overall length does

not exceed 15.50 metres; and

(d) in the case of a public service vehicle or a large passenger

carrying vehicle, the overall length does not exceed 12 metres;

and

(e) in the case of a motor vehicle, not being a vehicle to which

either of paragraphs (c) and (d) above relates, the overall length

does not exceed 11 metres; and

(f) in the case of any motor vehicle, the overhang does not exceed

six-tenths of the wheel base.

(3) The dispensations specified in sub-regulation (2) are in addition to the

provisos to sub-regulation (1) of this regulation.

(4) Notwithstanding anything contained in sub-regulation (1) the

Government may allow any of the dimensions therein set out to be exceeded

in respect of any vehicle but subject to such conditions as the Government

may impose.

Oversized vehicles to be marked.

7. (1) Every oversized vehicle shall clearly display in a conspicuous

position on the front left hand side and on the back left hand side of such

vehicle a distinguishing mark consisting of the figure “O” in red colour in a

white ground, which mark shall conform with the following requirements:–

(a) the figure must be 20 centimetres high and 30 centimetres

wide;

(b) every part of the figure must be 4 centimetres wide; and

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(c) there must be a margin between the nearest part of the figure

and the edges of the white ground of at least 4 centimetres.

(2) No person shall use or cause or permit to be used in Gibraltar an

oversized vehicle which does not comply with the requirement of sub-

regulation (1).

Weight to be marked.

8. The owner of an omnibus, goods vehicle, tractor or trailer shall cause the

unladen weight of the vehicle to be painted or otherwise plainly marked

upon some conspicuous place on the right side of the vehicle:

Provided that in the case of a tractor such marking shall include the words

"without trailer."

Maximum weight.

9. (1) The maximum laden weight of motor vehicles and trailers shall not

exceed–

(a) in the case of a wheeled motor vehicle which is a public service

vehicle with not more than four wheels–12190 kilograms;

(b) in the case of a wheeled motor vehicle which is a public service

vehicle with more than four wheels–14220 kilograms;

(c) in the case of a wheeled motor vehicle with not more than four

wheels which is not a public service vehicle–14220 kilograms;

(d) in the case of a wheeled motor vehicle with. more than four

wheels which is not a public service vehicle–20320 kilograms;

(e) in the case of a track laying motor vehicle–20320 kilograms;

(f) in the case of an articulated vehicle–20320 kilograms;

(g) in the case of a trailer whether wheeled or track-laying not

forming part of an articulated vehicle–14220 kilograms:

Provided that the total laden weight of a trailer whether wheeled or

articulated together with that of any motor vehicle whether wheeled or

articulated drawing such trailer, shall not exceed 20320 kilograms.

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(2) For the purposes of this regulation each person carried in a vehicle

shall be deemed to weigh 64 kilograms.

(3) Notwithstanding anything in this regulation no vehicle of which the

laden weight exceeds 10160 kilograms shall be driven on any bridge unless

the owner of the vehicle has given at least two clear days’ notice (excluding

Sundays and public holidays) to the authority in whom the bridge is vested

and complies with such requirements as to the strengthening of the bridge or

otherwise as may be specified by such authority.

Maximum weights on heavy traffic roads.

10.(1) Notwithstanding either of regulations 9 and 13, on any heavy traffic

road any limit specified in either of those regulations may be exceeded in

respect of any motor vehicle or trailer as long as the maximum laden weight

of that motor vehicle or trailer does not exceed –

(a) in the case of a wheeled motor vehicle having not more than

two axles which is not a large passenger carrying vehicle-16

260 kilograms;

(b) in the case of a wheeled motor vehicle having at least three

axles which is not a large passenger carrying vehicle-24380

kilograms;

(c) in the case of a wheeled motor vehicle having four axles which

is not a large passenger carrying vehicle-30480 kilograms;

(d) in the case of an articulated vehicle-32500 kilograms; and

(e) in the case of a trailer having three axles-24380 kilograms -

and in every case the vehicle complies with the requirements of regulation

7(1), and the total laden weight of a trailer together with a motor vehicle

does not exceed 32500 kilograms.

Weight restrictions on specified roads.

11. No person shall use, or cause or permit to be used, on–

(a) Smith Dorrien Bridge;

(b) Elliot’s Way; or

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(c) Europa Road between Elliot’s Way and the junction with Naval

Hospital Hill Road–

any motor vehicle or trailer whose maximum laden weight exceeds 10160

kilograms.

Restrictions on container traffic.

12. No person shall carry, or cause or permit to be carried, a container in or

on any vehicle on any road other than a heavy traffic road.

Distribution of weight.

13.(1) The total weight transmitted to the road surface by any two wheels in

line transversely shall not exceed–

(a) in the case of a wheeled motor vehicle–9140 kilograms;

(b) in the case of a wheeled motor vehicle if each wheel is fitted

with two pneumatic tyres having the centres of their areas of

contact with the road surface not less than 30 centimetres apart

measured at right angles to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle

or with a wide tyre–10160 kilograms;

(c) in the case of a track-laying vehicle–8120 kilograms;

(d) in the case of a trailer–9140 kilograms;

(e) in the case of a trailer if each wheel is fitted with two

pneumatic tyres having the centre of their areas of contact with

the road surface not less than 30 centimetres apart measured at

right angles to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle, or with a

wide tyre–10160 kilograms.

(2) The total weight transmitted by more than two wheels in line

transversely shall not exceed 11170 kilograms.

(3) The weight transmitted to any strip of the surface upon which a

vehicle rests contained between any two parallel lines drawn 60 centimetres

apart on that surface at right angles to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle

shall not exceed–

(a) in the case of a wheeled motor vehicle or trailer whether laden

or unladen–11170 kilograms;

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(b) in the case of a track-laying motor vehicle or trailer whether

laden or unladen–11170 kilograms.

Springs.

14. Every motor vehicle and trailer shall be equipped with suitable and

sufficient springs between each wheel and the frame of the vehicle:

Provided that this regulation shall not apply to motor cycles, mobile cranes,

works trucks and works trailers.

Tracks.

15. In a track laying vehicle those parts of the tracks which come into

contact with the road surface shall be flat and have a minimum width of 1

centimetre. The total area of each track actually in contact with the road

surface at any one time shall be not less than 232.26 square centimetres in

respect of each 1016 kilograms of the total weight of the vehicle which is

transferred to the road surface by means of the tracks.

Condition of tyres and tracks.

16. (1) Save as provided in sub-regulation (2), no person shall use or cause

or permit to be used on a road any motor vehicle or trailer other than a road

roller or a track laying vehicle, a wheel of which is fitted with a pneumatic

tyre, if–

(a) the tyre is unsuitable having regard to the use to which the

motor vehicle or trailer is being put or to the types of tyres

fitted to its other wheels;

(b) the tyre is not so inflated as to make it fit for the use to which

the motor vehicle or trailer is being put;

(c) the tyre has a break in its fabric, or has a cut in excess of 2.50

centimetre or ten per cent of the section width of the tyre,

whichever is the greater, measured in any direction on the

outside of the tyre and deep enough to reach the body cords;

(d) the tyre has any lump or bulge caused by separation or partial

failure of its structure;

(e) the tyre has any portion of the ply or cord structure exposed; or

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(f) where the tyre is fitted to a wheel of a motor vehicle, being a

motor cycle whereof the cylinder capacity of the engine does

not exceed 50 cubic centimetres, the tread of the tyre does not

show throughout at least three quarters of the breadth of the

tread and round the entire outer circumference of the tyre a

pattern the relief of which is clearly visible, or where the tyre is

fitted to a wheel of any other motor vehicle or any trailer, the

tread pattern (excluding any tie-bar) of the tyre does not have a

depth of at least 1.6 millimetre throughout at least three

quarters of the breadth of the tread and round the entire outer

circumference of the tyre:

Provided that this sub-regulation shall not apply in the case of a motor

cycle having three wheels, the unladen weight of which does not exceed

100kg and which is incapable of exceeding a speed of 19.31 kilometres per

hour on the level under its own power.

(2) No person shall use or cause or permit to be used on a road any

motor vehicle or trailer a wheel of which is fitted with a recut pneumatic

tyre the fabric of which has been cut or exposed by the recutting process.

(3) Without prejudice to sub-regulations (1) and (2), all the tyres or

tracks of a motor vehicle or trailer shall at all times while the vehicle or

trailer is used on a road be maintained in such condition as to be fit for the

use to which the vehicle or trailer is being put, and as to be free from any

defect which might in any way cause damage to the surface of the road or

danger to persons on or in the vehicle or to other persons using the road.

Maintenance of steering gear.

16A. All steering gear fitted to a motor vehicle shall at all times while the

vehicle is used on a road be maintained in good and efficient working order

and be properly adjusted.

Brakes.

17.(1) Except as provided for in sub-regulations (2) and (3), the braking

system of every motor vehicle of a category specified in the second column

of Schedule 1 and the braking system of every trailer of a category' specified

in the third column of that Schedule, and which was or is manufactured on

or after the 1st October 1982 and first used on or after the 1st April 1983

shall comply with the construction, fitting and performance requirements

specified in respect that category in the fourth column of that Schedule:

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Provided that it shall not be unlawful for any motor vehicle of a category

specified in the second column or any trailer of a category specified in the

third column of that Schedule and which was manufactured before the 1st

October 1982 or first used before the 1st April 1983 to comply with the said

requirements instead of with any other requirements relating to the

construction of the braking system of such vehicles as are specified in these

regulations.

(2) The requirements specified in sub-regulation (1) shall not apply to–

(a) a motor tractor; or

(b) a works trailer; or

(c) a works truck; or

(d) a trailer designed and constructed or adapted to be drawn

exclusively by a vehicle to which paragraph (a) or (c) applies.

(3) The requirements specified in the fourth column of Schedule 1 shall

apply–

(a) to items 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 so that the requirement specified in

paragraph 1.2.1 of Annex IV to the Council Directive shall

apply as amended by Commission Directive 79/4891/EEC of

the 18th April 1979;

(b) to items 2 and 3 with the proviso that the testing requirements

specified in paragraphs 1.5.1 and 1.5.2 of Annex II to the

Council Directive shall apply in relation to every vehicle in

category M3, other than a double-decked vehicle first used

before the 1st October 1983;

(c) to items 2 and 3 with the proviso that the requirements

specified in paragraph 1.1.4.2 of Annex II to the Council

Directive shall not apply in relation to a vehicle which is in

category M2 or category M3;

(d) in items 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6, in the case of vehicles constructed

or adapted for use by physically handicapped drivers the

requirement in paragraph 2.1.2.1 of Annex 1 to the Council

Directive that the driver must be able to achieve the braking

action mentioned in that paragraph from his driving seat

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without removing his hands from the steering control shall not

apply, provided that the driver is able to achieve that action

while one of his hands remains on the steering control.

(4) In this regulation–

(a) “the Council Directive” means Council Directive 71/320/EEC

of the 26th July 1971 (which relates to the braking devices of

certain categories of motor vehicles and their trailers), as

amended by Commission Directive 75/524/ EEC of the 25th

July 1975 and Commission Directive 79/489/EEC of the 18th

April 1979 (the amendments to Council Directive 71/320/ EEC

introduced by Commission Directive 74/ 132/EEC of the 11th

February 1974 not being relevant); and

(b) a reference to a vehicle in category M2 or M3 is a reference to

a vehicle categorized by that number and letter in Article I of

the Council Directive.

Dual systems of operations.

17A. (1) Save as provided in sub-regulation (2), every motor vehicle shall be

equipped either with an efficient braking system having two means of

operation or with two efficient braking systems each having a separate

means of operation:

Provided that for the purpose of this sub-regulation no account shall be

taken of a multi-pull means of operation unless that means, at the first

application, operates an hydraulic, electric or pneumatic device which

causes brakes to be applied sufficient to have a total braking efficiency of

not less than the total braking efficiency required by sub-regulation 5(b) in

relation to brakes as applied by a second independent means of operation.

(2) Nothing in–

(a) any part of this regulation shall apply to a motor vehicle to

which regulation 17 applies;

(b) Sub-regulation (1) or (3) shall apply to a motor vehicle

equipped with one efficient braking system with one means of

operation and which is a split braking system.

(3) Save as provided in sub-regulation (2), the braking system or braking

systems of every motor vehicle shall be so designed and constructed that,

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notwithstanding the failure of any part (other than a fixed member or a brake

shoe anchor pin) through or by means of which the force necessary to apply

the brakes is transmitted, there shall still he available for application by the

driver to not less than half the number of wheels of the vehicle brakes

sufficient under the most adverse conditions to bring the vehicle to rest

within a reasonable distance:

Provided that, in the event of such failure, it shall not be necessary for

brakes to be available for application by the driver in the case of a vehicle

having less than four wheels, to more than one wheel.

(4) The braking system or braking systems of every motor vehicle to

which Schedule 2 applies shall comply with the requirements of that

Schedule relating to the efficiency of the brakes of such motor vehicles.

(5) The braking system or braking Systems of every motor vehicle

which is not a works truck or a pedestrian controlled vehicle shall–

(a) have brakes acting on all the wheels of the vehicle which as

applied by one means of operation have a total braking

efficiency of not less than 50 per cent;

(b) except in the case mentioned in paragraph (c), have brakes

which as applied by a second independent means of operation

have a total braking efficiency of not less than 25 per cent;

(c) in the case of a motor vehicle equipped with a split braking

system in accordance with sub-regulation (2), have brakes

which in the event of a failure of any part (other than a fixed

member or a brake shoe anchor pin) of one of the independent

sections comprised in the split braking system are such that

there remain brakes applied by the other section sufficient to

have a total braking efficiency of not less than 25 per cent.

(6) Sub-regulations (1) and (3) shall not apply in the case of a works

truck if it is equipped with one braking system having one means of

operation.

(7) The application of the one means of operation shall not affect or

operate the pedal or hand lever of the other means of operation.

(8) No braking system shall be rendered ineffective by the non-rotation

of the engine:

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Provided that this sub-regulation shall not apply in the case of any vehicle

referred to in sub-regulation (12)(b).

(9) All the brakes of a motor vehicle which are operated by one means

of operation shall be capable of being applied by direct mechanical action

without the intervention of any hydraulic, electric or pneumatic device:

Provided that this sub-regulation shall not apply to a motor vehicle which

satisfies the requirements of regulation 17G(2).

(10) Where any brake shoe of a motor vehicle is capable of being applied

by more than one means of operation, all the wheels of the vehicle shall be

fitted with brakes all of which are operated by one of the means of

operation:

Provided that–

(a) where a motor vehicle has more than six wheels at least four of

which are steering wheels, it shall be a sufficient compliance

with this sub-regulation if brakes are fitted to all the wheels,

other than two steering wheels which are situated on opposite

sides of the vehicle, and all such brakes are operated by one of

the means of operation;

(b) where a motor vehicle has more than four wheels and the drive

is transmitted to all wheels other than the steering wheels

without the inter-position of a differential driving gear or

similar mechanism between the axles carrying the driving

wheels, it shall be deemed a sufficient compliance with this

sub-regulation if one means of operation operates the brakes on

two driving wheels situated on opposite sides of the vehicle

and the other means of operation operates brakes on all the

other wheels required by this sub-regulation to be fitted with

brakes; and

(c) where means of operation are provided in addition to those

prescribed by this regulation, such additional means of

operation may be disregarded for the purposes of this sub-

regulation.

(11) One at least of the means of operation shall be capable of causing

brakes to be applied directly, and not through the transmission gear, to not

less than half the number of the wheels of the vehicle:

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Provided that–

(a) in the case of a motor vehicle having brakes acting on all the

wheels of the vehicle and capable of being applied by one

means of operation, any shaft leading from any differential

driving gear or an axle to a driving wheel shall he deemed not

to form part of the transmission gear;

(b) in the case of any other motor vehicle with more than four

wheels, if the drive is transmitted to all wheels other than the

steering wheels without the interposition of a differential

driving gear or similar mechanism between the axles carrying

the driving wheels, it shall he deemed to be a sufficient

compliance with this sub-regulation if the brakes applied by

one means of operation act directly on two driving wheels on

opposite sides of the vehicle and the brakes applied by the

other means of operation acts directly on all other driving

wheels.

(12) For the purposes of this regulation–

(a) in the case of any motor vehicle

(i) not more than one front wheel shall be included in half

the number of the wheels of the vehicle for the purposes

aforesaid, except that this provision shall not apply either

to a motor vehicle with more than three wheels, whether

or not any brake shoe is capable of being applied by

more than one means of operation, if, as respects the

fitting of its wheels with brakes and the operation of

those brakes, the provisions of sub-regulation (10)

relating to such matters are complied with, or to a works

truck; and

(ii) every moving shaft to which any part of a braking system

or any means of operation thereof is connected or by

which it is supported shall be deemed to be part of that

system; and

(b) in the case of a motor vehicle propelled by steam and not used

as a public service vehicle, the engine shall be deemed to be an

efficient braking system with one means of operation if the

engine is capable of being reversed and is incapable of being

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disconnected from any of the driving wheels of the vehicle

except by the sustained effort of the driver.

Vacuum or pressure braking systems.

17B. Every motor vehicle, not being a vehicle to which regulation 17

applies, which is equipped with a braking system which embodies a vacuum

or pressure reservoir or reservoirs shall be provided with a warning device

so placed as to be readily visible to the driver of the vehicle when in the

driving seat, in order to indicate any impending failure or deficiency in the

vacuum or pressure system:

Provided that in the case of a vehicle the unladen weight of which does not

exceed 3,050 kilograms and which is propelled by an internal combustion

engine and equipped with a braking system embodying a vacuum reservoir

or reservoirs, the vacuum therein being derived directly from the induction

system of the engine, it shall not be necessary to provide such a warning

device if, in the event of a failure or deficiency in the vacuum System, the

brakes of that braking system are sufficient under the most adverse

conditions to bring the vehicle to rest within a reasonable distance.

Motor cycle brakes.

17C. (1) Every motor cycle shall be equipped either with an efficient

braking system having two means of operation or with two efficient braking

Systems each having a separate means of operation.

(2) The braking system or braking Systems with which a motor cycle is

required to be equipped shall be so designed and constructed that

notwithstanding the failure of any part (other than a fixed member or a brake

shoe anchor pin) through or by means of which the force necessary to apply

the brakes is transmitted there shall still be available for application by the

driver to at least one wheel of the vehicle brakes sufficient under the most

adverse conditions to bring the vehicle to rest within a reasonable distance.

(3) The braking system or braking systems of every motor cycle to

which Schedule 2 applies shall comply with the requirements of that

Schedule relating to the efficiency of the brakes of such motor cycles.

(4) Sub-regulations (1), (2) and (3) shall not apply in the case of a works

truck if it is equipped with one braking system having one means of

operation.

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(5) In the case of a motor cycle required to have two means of operating

brakes, the application of one means of operation shall not affect or operate

the pedal or hand lever of the other means of operation.

Invalid carriage brakes.

17D. Every invalid carriage shall be equipped with an efficient braking

system, the brakes of which act on at least two wheels of the vehicle, so

designed and constructed that the application of the brakes shall bring the

vehicle to rest within a reasonable distance.

Trailer brakes.

17E.(1) Save as provided in sub-regulations (2) and (3), every trailer which

has a gross vehicle weight exceeding 750 kilograms shall be equipped with

an efficient braking system so designed and constructed that–

(a) when the trailer is being drawn, the brakes of that braking

system are capable of being applied to all the wheels of the

trailer by the driver of the drawing vehicle using the means of

operation applying those of the brakes of the drawing vehicle

which were designed and constructed to have the highest

braking efficiency of any of the brakes of any braking system

with which the drawing vehicle is equipped;

(b) when the trailer is being drawn, in the event of a failure of any

part (other than a fixed member or a brake shoe anchor pin) of

the braking system with which the drawing vehicle is equipped

(excluding the means of operation of a split braking system) or

of any part (other than as aforesaid) of the braking system with

which the trailer is equipped, brakes shall still be capable of

being applied to at least two wheels of the trailer or, in the case

of a two wheeled trailer, to one wheel in the manner indicated

in paragraph (a) or by the driver using any other means of

operation of a braking system with which the drawing vehicle

is by these regulations required to be equipped;

(c) when the trailer is stationary–

(i) the brakes of that system can also be applied to at least

two wheels of the trailer and released by a person

standing on the ground by a means of operation fitted to

the trailer;

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(ii) the braking force of that system can, when applied in the

manner indicated in paragraph (a) or in paragraph (c)(i)

at all times be maintained in operation by direct

mechanical action without the intervention of any

hydraulic, electric or pneumatic device; and

(iii) such braking force, when so applied and so maintained in

operation by direct mechanical action, is capable of

holding the trailer stationary on a gradient of at least 1 in

6.25 without the assistance of stored energy;

Provided that the provisions of paragraphs (a) and (b) shall not apply in the

case of a trailer if the brakes of the trailer automatically come into operation

on the overrun of the trailer.

(2) Where–

(a) a motor vehicle which conforms to the requirements of Council

Directive 71/320/EEC of the 26th July 1971 or, where

appropriate, to the requirements of that Directive as amended

by the amending Directives specified in regulation 17(4)(a), is

drawing a trailer to which that Directive does not apply; or

(b) a motor vehicle to which regulation 17 applies is drawing a

trailer to which that regulation does not apply,

sub-regulation (l)(b) shall apply to the trailer as if the words “or of any part

(other than as aforesaid) of the braking system with which the trailer is

equipped” were omitted.

(3) Sub-regulations (1) and (2) shall not apply to –

(a) any trailer designed for use and used for street cleansing, which

does not carry any load other than its necessary gear and

equipment;

(b) any broken down vehicle which is being drawn by a motor

vehicle in consequence of the breakdown; or

(c) any trailer to which regulation 17 applies.

(4) Where–

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(a) a trailer which conforms to the requirements of Council

Directive 71/320/EEC of the 26th July 1971 or where

appropriate, to the requirements of that Directive as, amended

by the amending Directives specified in regulation 17(4)(a), is

drawn by a motor vehicle to which that Directive does not

apply; or

(b) a trailer to which regulation 17 applies is drawn by a motor

vehicle to which that regulation does not apply,

then the braking system of the drawing vehicle shall be so constructed that

in the event of a failure of any part (other than a fixed member or a brake

shoe anchor pin) of the service braking system with which the drawing

vehicle is equipped (excluding the means of operation of a split braking

system) brakes shall still be capable of being applied to at least two wheels

of the trailer or, in the case of a two-wheeled trailer, to one wheel by the

driver using the secondary braking system of the drawing vehicle.

(5) In sub-regulation (4), “service braking system” means the braking

system which was designed and constructed to have the highest braking

efficiency of any braking system with which the drawing vehicle is

equipped, and “secondary braking system” means a braking system applied

by a second independent means of operation or by one of the independent

sections comprised in a split braking system.

Other vehicles.

17F. All other vehicles, including works trucks, road rollers, mobile cranes

and pedestrian controlled vehicles shall be equipped with an efficient

braking system or braking systems so designed and constructed that the

application of the brakes shall bring the vehicle to rest within a reasonable

distance.

Parking brakes.

17G. (1) Save as provided in sub-regulation (3), every motor vehicle shall be

equipped with a braking system (which may be one of the braking Systems

prescribed in regulation 17A (other than sub-regulation (2))) so designed

and Constructed that it can at all times be set so as effectually to prevent two

at least, or in the case of vehicles with only three wheels one, of the wheels

from revolving when the vehicle is not being driven or is left unattended.

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(2) Save as provided in sub-regulation (3), every motor vehicle, not

being a vehicle to which regulation 17 applies, shall be equipped with a

braking system so designed and constructed that–

(a) its means of operation, whether being a multi-pull means of

operation or not, is independent of the means of operation of

any braking system required by regulation 17A(5) to have a

total braking efficiency of not less than 50 per cent;

(b) its braking force, when the vehicle is not being driven or is left

unattended

(i) can at all times be maintained in operation by direct

mechanical action without the intervention of any

hydraulic, electric or pneumatic device; and

(ii) when so maintained in operation by direct mechanical

action, is capable of holding the vehicle stationary on a

gradient of at least 1 in 6.25 without the assistance of

stored energy.

(3) Nothing in sub-regulations (1) and (2) shall apply to–

(a) a two-wheeled motor cycle with or without a side car attached;

or

(b) an invalid carriage.

Maintenance of brakes.

17H. (1) Every part of every braking system and of the means of operation

thereof fitted to a motor vehicle or a trailer, not being–

(a) a motor vehicle or a trailer which conforms to the requirements

of Council Directive 71/320/ EEC of the 26th July 1971 or,

where appropriate, to the requirements of that Directive as

amended by the amending Directives specified in regulation

17(4)(a); or

(b) a motor vehicle or trailer to which regulation 17 applies,

shall at all times while the motor vehicle or trailer is used on a road–

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(i) be maintained in good and efficient working order and be

properly adjusted;

(ii) in the case of motor vehicles to which Schedule 2

applies, be so maintained that the brakes forming part of

the system comply with the requirements as to the

efficiency of brakes which are applicable to such a

vehicle by virtue of the provisions contained in

regulations 17A(4) and 17C(3);

(iii) in the case of motor vehicles to which regulation 17A(5)

or 17C(3) applies, where such a vehicle is not being used

while drawing a trailer, be so maintained that the brakes

forming part of the system comply with the requirements

as to the efficiency of brakes which are applicable to

such a vehicle by virtue of the provisions contained in

either of those sub-regulations;

(iv) in the case of a motor vehicle to which regulation 17G(2)

applies, be so maintained that the system complies with

the requirements as to its braking force specified in

regulation 17G(2)(b)(ii); and

(v) in the case of a trailer to which regulation 17E (1)

applies, be so maintained that the system complies with

the requirements as to its braking force specified in

regulation l7E(1)(c)(iii), and for the purposes of this

paragraph a reference to a trailer to which regulation

17E(1) applies shall, in the case of a composite trailer, be

deemed to be a reference to the semi-trailer which forms

part of the composite trailer.

(2) Where a motor vehicle to which regulation 17A(5) or 17C(3) applies

is being used while drawing a trailer (other than a trailer not required by

these regulations to be equipped with a braking system), whether or not that

motor vehicle and trailer together form an articulated vehicle, then every

part of every braking system with which that motor vehicle is equipped and

every part of every braking system with which the trailer is equipped shall

be so maintained that, when the brakes of any braking system of that motor

vehicle (being a system to which regulation 17A(5) or 17C(3) applies) are

applied by their means of operation and the brakes of any braking system of

that trailer applied by that same means of operation are applied those brakes

together produce the same total braking efficiencies as would be required of

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the brakes of such a motor vehicle when applied by that means of operation

if that motor vehicle were not drawing a trailer.

(3) Where a motor vehicle to which regulation 17G(2) applies is

attached to a trailer (other than a trailer not required by these regulations to

be equipped with a braking system) whether or not that motor vehicle and

trailer together form an articulated vehicle, and the combination of those

vehicles is stationary, then every part of every braking System with which

that motor vehicle is equipped and every part of every braking system with

which the trailer is equipped shall be so maintained that the brakes of those

Systems as applied by the means of operation specified in regulation 17G(2)

can together produce a braking force sufficient to hold the combination of

vehicles Stationary on a gradient of at least 1 in 6.25 without the assistance

of stored energy.

(4) In this regulation, “EEC regulation 13” means regulation 13,

incorporating the amendments described therein as the 03 series of

amendments which came into force on the 4th January 1979, annexed to the

Agreement concerning the adoption of uniform conditions of approval for

Motor Vehicle Equipment and Parts and reciprocal recognition thereof, done

at Geneva on the 20th March l958.

18. Revoked.

Stop lights.

19. (1) Every stop light fitted to a motor vehicle or to a trailer shall be fitted

at the rear of the vehicle and not to the right of the centre thereof and when

in operation shall show a red or amber light:

Provided that nothing in this paragraph shall prevent the fitting of a

duplicate stop light on the right side of the vehicle which comes into

operation at the same time as the stop light fitted at the centre or on the left

side of the vehicle.

(2) Every light shown by a stop light shall be diffused by means of

frosted glass or other adequate means and shall be a steady light.

Direction indicators.

20. (1) Every motor vehicle shall be equipped with direction indicators and

such indicators shall be of one of the following types:–

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(a) a movable arm not less than 15 centimetres in length capable of

protruding beyond the side of the vehicle, which when in

operation shall–

(i) if not illuminated, present a white surface visible from

both the front and the rear of the vehicle;

(ii) if illuminated, show either a steady or a constantly

flashing light visible from both the front and the rear of

the vehicle;

(b) a lamp fitted to the side of the vehicle which, when in

operation shows a constantly flashing light visible at a

reasonable distance from both the front and the rear of the

vehicle; .

(c) two lamps fitted to any side of the vehicle and so designed and

fitted that–

(i) neither of the lamps on either side of the vehicle shall be

capable of operating unless the other lamp on that side

operates coincidentally with it;

(ii) when in operating one of the indicators on one side shall

show a flashing light visible from a reasonable distance

to the front of the vehicle and the other lamp on that side

shall, except when a trailer is being drawn, show a

flashing light visible from a reasonable distance to the

rear of the vehicle.

(2) Any direction indicator intended to indicate a left hand turn shall be

fitted only to the left of the longitudinal axis of the vehicle and one intended

to indicate a right hand turn shall be fitted only to the right of that axis.

(3) The illuminated colour of every direction indicator shall–

(a) if it shows to both the front and the rear, be amber;

(b) if it shows only to the front, be amber or white; and

(c) if it shows only to the rear, be amber or red.

(4) The light emitted by every direction indicator shall be diffused by

frosted glass or other adequate means.

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(5) The following requirements shall be complied with as respects the

direction indicators on a vehicle:–

(a) not less than one indicator on each side to which the indicators

are fitted shall be so designed and fitted that the driver when in

his seat can readily be aware when it is in operation; or

(b) the vehicle shall be equipped with a device or devices so fitted

as to be readily visible to the driver at all times when in his

seat, and so designed as to show when at least one indicator on

each side of the vehicle is in operation.

(6) Every direction indicator shall be so fitted that when not in operation

it will not be likely to mislead the driver of any other vehicle or any person

controlling traffic.

(7) Any reference in this regulation to the side of a vehicle shall be taken

to include that part of the front or the back of the vehicle which is on that

side of the vehicle.

Maintenance of direction indicators.

20A. Every direction indicator with which a motor vehicle is equipped shall

at all times while the vehicle is used on a road he maintained in good and

efficient working order and be properly adjusted.

Speed indicator.

21. (1) Every motor vehicle registered after the coming into operation of

these regulations shall be fitted with a speed indicator for recording the

speed of such vehicle with reasonable accuracy:

Provided that this regulation shall not apply to any tractor, invalid carriage

or to any motor cycle the unladen weight of which does not exceed 250

kilograms or to any vehicle which by reason of its construction is incapable

of exceeding 19.31 kilometres per hour on level ground under its own

power.

(2) Every speed indicator shall be fitted in such a manner as to be visible

to the driver at all times.

Maintenance of speed indicator.

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22. Every instrument for indicating speed provided in compliance with the

requirements of regulation 21 shall–

(a) at all material times be maintained in good working order; and

(b) be kept free from any obstruction which might prevent its being

easily read (or the appropriate indication given thereby being

easily seen or heard):

Provided that it shall be a good defence to proceedings taken in respect of a

contravention of paragraph (a) of this regulation to prove that–

(i) the defect occurred in the course of the journey during

which the contravention was detected; or

(ii) at the time when the contravention was detected steps

had already been taken to have the defect remedied with

all reasonable expedition.

View to the front.

23. Every motor vehicle shall be so designed and constructed that the driver

thereof while controlling the vehicle can at all times have a full view of the

road and traffic ahead of the motor vehicle.

Mirrors.

24. (1) Subject to regulation 24A, every motor vehicle shall be equipped

either internally or externally with a mirror so constructed and fitted to the

motor vehicle, as to assist the driver if he so desires to become aware of

traffic to the rear of the vehicle:

Provided that this regulation shall not apply to–

(a) a two-wheeled motor cycle with or without a sidecar attached;

(b) a motor vehicle when drawing a trailer if a person is carried on

the trailer in a position which affords an uninterrupted view to

the rear and such person is provided with efficient means of

communicating to the driver the effect of signals given by the

drivers of other vehicles in rear thereof; or

(c) a works truck if the driver can easily obtain a clear view of

traffic to the rear.

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(2) No motor vehicle shall be fitted with a mirror which protrudes

outwards from the vehicle more than 5 centimetres beyond vertical planes

parallel to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle and passing through the

extreme projecting points of the vehicle, exclusive of any driving mirror and

direction indicator and of so much of the distortion of any tyre as is caused

by the weight of the vehicle, unless the mirror is of the swivel type and

mounted on a flexible support:

Provided that this paragraph shall not apply in the case of a mirror the

lowest, part of which is not less than 2 metres above the ground.

Mirrors: vehicles in N

2

and N

3

categories.

24A.(1) This regulation applies to N

2

vehicles and N

3

vehicles which have

been registered, pursuant to the Traffic Act, after 1 January 2000.

(2) This regulation does not apply to an N

2

vehicle having a maximum

total permissible mass not exceeding 7.5 tonnes if it is impossible to mount

a class V mirror that fulfils the following criteria

(a) no part of the mirror is less than 2 metres (a tolerance of +10

centimetres may be applied) from the ground, regardless of the

adjustment position, when the vehicle is under a load

corresponding to its maximum technically permissible weight;

and

(b) the mirror is fully visible from the driving position.

(3) N

2

vehicles and N

3

vehicles must be equipped, on the passenger

side

(a) with wide-angle and close-proximity mirrors which fulfil the

requirements for class IV and class V mirrors; or

(b) with wide-angle and close-proximity mirrors, whose

combination of fields of vision covers not less than 95% of the

field of vision at ground level of a class IV mirror and not less

than 85% of the field of vision at ground level of a class V

mirror.

(4) In the case of a vehicle which the chief examiner is satisfied that for

want of available, economically viable, technical solutions, it cannot be

equipped with mirrors complying with the requirements set out in

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subregulation (3)(a) or (b), the chief examiner shall certify that that vehicle

may be equipped with supplementary mirrors and/or other devices of

indirect vision, provided that the combination of such devices covers not

less than 95% of the field of vision at ground level of a class IV mirror and

not less than 85% of the field of vision at ground level of a class V mirror.

(5) For the purposes of this regulation a wide angle or close-proximity

class IV or class V mirror means a mirror of a kind that meets the

specifications set out in Schedule 3.

(6) In accordance with Article 3(4) of Directive 2007/38/EC of the

European Parliament and of the Council of 11 July 2007 on the retrofitting

of mirrors to heavy goods vehicles registered in the Community, the

Minister shall ensure that a list of technical solutions complying with

subregulations (3) and (4) is communicated to the Commission.

Maintenance of glass.

25. All glass or other transparent material fitted to motor vehicles shall be

maintained in such a condition that it does not obscure the vision of the

driver while the vehicle is being driven on a road or obscure the driver from

the vision of any person looking from the outside of the motor vehicle into

the interior of the motor vehicle while it is either stationary or being driven

on the road.

Safety glass.

26. The glass of wind-screens and windows facing to the front on the

outside of any motor vehicle shall be safety glass.

For the purposes of this regulation any wind-screen or window at the front

of the vehicle the inner surface of which is at any angle exceeding 30

degrees to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle shall be deemed to face to the

front.

Wind-screen wipers.

27. An efficient automatic wind-screen wiper shall be fitted to every motor

vehicle which is so constructed that the driver cannot, by opening the wind-

screen or otherwise, obtain an adequate view to the front of the vehicle

without looking through the wind-screen.

Maintenance of windscreen wipers.

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27A. Every windscreen wiper required by regulation 27 to be fitted to a

motor vehicle shall at all times while the vehicle is used on a road be

maintained in good and efficient working order and be properly adjusted.

28. Revoked.

Warning instruments.

29. Every motor vehicle other than a works truck shall be fitted with an

instrument capable of giving audible and sufficient warning of its approach

or position:

Provided that no such instrument shall consist of a gong, bell or siren

except in the case of a motor vehicle used solely for fire brigade, ambulance,

Police or Customs purposes.

Maintenance of fuel tanks.

29A. Every motor vehicle shall at all times be so maintained that–

(a) any tank, in which fuel used either for the propulsion of the

vehicle or for the driving of any ancillary engine or equipment

forming part of the vehicle is contained, is reasonably secure

against its being damaged; and

(b) the leakage of any liquid or vapour from any such tank is

adequately prevented, so, however, that nothing in this

paragraph shall be taken to preclude the tank being fitted with a

device which by the intake of air or the emission of vapour

relieves changes in pressure in the tank.

Silencers and exhaust pipes.

30. (1) Every motor vehicle propelled by an internal combustion engine

shall be fitted with a silencer, expansion chamber or other contrivance

suitable and sufficient for reducing as far as may be reasonable the noise

caused by the escape of the exhaust gases from the engine.

(2) Every such silencer, expansion chamber or other contrivance shall at

all times while the vehicle is used on a road be maintained in good and

efficient working order, and shall not have been altered in such a way that

the noise caused by the escape of the exhaust gases is made greater by the

alteration.

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(3) For the purposes of regulation 5 of the Traffic (Licensing and

Registration) Regulations, the registration of vehicles with engines which

meet the emission standards prescribed in Council Directives 88/76/EEC

and 88/77/EEC shall not be refused if they otherwise meet the requirements

of the Act.

Emission of smoke or vapour.

31. (1) Every motor vehicle propelled by a compression ignition engine

shall be so constructed that no avoidable smoke or visible vapour is emitted

therefrom.

(2) Where a motor vehicle to which this regulation applies is equipped

with a device designed to facilitate the starting of the engine by causing it to

be supplied with excess fuel, the device and any apparatus by means of

which it is operated shall be fitted in such a position, or such other provision

shall be made, as to ensure that the device cannot readily be operated by a

person while he is being carried by the vehicle:

Provided that this regulation shall not apply in the case of a vehicle fitted

with such a device if the device is so designed that–

(a) its use after the engine has been started cannot cause the

engines to be supplied with excess fuel; or

(b) it does not cause any increase in the smoke or visible vapour

emitted from the vehicle.

(3) The engine of every motor vehicle to which this regulation applies

shall be equipped with means sufficient to ensure that, while the engine is

running, any vapours or gases in the engine crank case or in any other part of

the engine to which vapours or gases may pass from the crank case are

prevented, so far as is reasonably practicable, from escaping into the

atmosphere otherwise than through the combustion chamber of the engine.

Maintenance of vehicles so as to prevent emission.

31A. No person shall use or cause or permit to be used on a road–

(a) a motor vehicle to which regulation 31 applies; or

(b) a motor vehicle conforming to the requirements of Council

Directive 72/306/EEC of the 2nd August 1972,

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if the fuel injection equipment, the engine speed governor or any other parts

of the engine by which it is propelled have been in any way altered or

adjusted so as to increase by such alteration or adjustment the emission of

smoke from that vehicle.

(2) Where a motor vehicle is fitted with a device to facilitate the starting

of the engine by causing it to be supplied with excess fuel

(a) the device shall be maintained in such a condition that it does

not cause the engine to be supplied with excess fuel while the

vehicle is in motion on a road; and

(b) no person shall use the device, or cause or permit it to be used,

so as to cause it to supply the engine with excess fuel while the

vehicle is in motion on a road:

Provided that this paragraph shall not apply as respects a device such as is

mentioned in paragraph (ii) of the proviso to regulation 31(2).

(3) The engine of every motor vehicle to which regulation 31(3) applies

shall at all times while the vehicle is used on a road be so maintained that

the means by which (in compliance with that sub- regulation) vapours or

gases in the engine crank case or in other parts of the engine are prevented

from escaping into the atmosphere are in good and efficient working order.

Excessive noise from faulty adjustment, etc.

32. No person shall use or cause or permit to be used on a road any motor

vehicle or trailer which causes any excessive noise either directly or

indirectly as a result of–

(a) any defect (including a defect in design or construction), lack

of repair or faulty adjustment in the motor vehicle or trailer or

any part or accessory of such motor vehicle or trailer; or

(b) the faulty packing or adjustment of the load of such motor

vehicle or trailer:

Provided that it shall be a good defence to proceedings taken under this

regulation–

(i) to prove that the noise or continuance of the noise in

respect of which the proceedings are taken was due to

some temporary or accidental cause and could not have

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been prevented by the exercise of due diligence and care

on the part of the owner or driver of the motor vehicle; or

(ii) in the case of proceedings against the driver or person in

charge of the motor vehicle who is not the owner thereof,

to prove that the noise arose through a defect in design or

construction of the motor vehicle or trailer or through the

negligence or fault of some other person, whose duty it

was to keep the motor vehicle or trailer in proper

condition or in a proper state of repair or adjustment or

properly to pack or adjust the load of such motor vehicle

or trailer as the case may be, and could not have been

prevented by the exercise of reasonable diligence and

care on the part of such driver or other person in charge

of the motor vehicle.

Restraint of loads.

32A. The load carried by any motor vehicle. used either on its own or in

conjunction with a trailer, or by a motor tractor used in conjunction with the

trailer, shall, at all times, be so secured, if necessary by physical restraint

other than its own weight, and be in such position that neither danger not

nuisance is likely to be caused to any person or property by reason of the

load or any part thereof falling or being blown from the vehicle by reason of

any other movement of the load or any part thereof in relation to the vehicle.

Wings.

33. A motor vehicle shall be provided with wings or other similar fittings to

catch, so far as practicable, mud or water thrown up by the rotation of the

wheels unless adequate protection is afforded by the body of the vehicle:

Provided that this regulation shall not apply–

(a) in the case of a vehicle in an unfinished condition proceeding

to a works for completion; or

(b) in the case of a works truck.

Mascots.

34. No mascot shall be carried by a motor vehicle in any position where it is

likely to strike any person with whom the vehicle may collide, unless the

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mascot is not liable to cause injury to such person by reason of any

projection thereon.

35 to 54

.

Revoked.

Special Provisions relating to Motor Cycles

Sidecars on motor cycles.

55. Every sidecar fitted to a motor cycle shall be so attached that the wheel

thereof is not wholly outside perpendicular planes at right angles to the

longitudinal axis of the motor cycle passing through the extreme projecting

points in the front and in the rear of the motor cycle.

PART II.

56 to 60 Revoked.

PART III.

BICYCLES.

Brakes on bicycles.

61. (1) Subject to the provisions of this Part every bicycle having any wheel

of which the outside diameter (including any tyre when fully inflated)

exceeds 46 centimetres shall–

(a) if it is so constructed that one or more of the wheels is

incapable of rotating independently of the pedals, be equipped

with a braking system operating on the front wheel or both the

front wheels if it has two front wheels;

(b) if it is not so constructed, be equipped with two independent

braking systems one of which operates on the front wheel or

both the front wheels if it has two front wheels, and the other of

which operates on the rear wheel or one of the rear wheels if it

has two rear wheels:

Provided that in the case of a tricycle not constructed or adapted for the

carriage of goods it shall be a sufficient compliance with this sub-regulation

if the tricycle is equipped with two independent braking systems operating

on the front wheel if it has two rear wheels, or on the rear wheel if it has two

front wheels.

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(2) Every other bicycle shall be equipped with at least one braking

system.

Efficiency

62. (1) All braking systems required by this Part shall be efficient and shall

be kept in proper working order.

(2) For the purpose of this regulation a braking system shall be deemed

not to be efficient if the brake operates directly on the tyre of any wheel.

Exemptions.

63. Nothing in regulations 61 and 62 shall apply to any bicycle so

constructed that the pedals act directly upon any wheel or upon the axle of

any wheel without the interposition of any gearing, chain or other device.

Power of Police Officers.

64. Any police officer in uniform is hereby empowered to test and inspect

the brakes of any bicycle either on a road or on any premises. where the

bicycle is:

Provided that such a test and inspection shall not be carried out on any

premises where the bicycle is unless the bicycle has been involved in an

accident, the test and inspection are carried out within forty-eight hours of

the accident and the owner of the premises consent;

PART IV.

LAMPS AND REFLECTORS

Obligatory lamps.

65. (1) Every vehicle on any. road shall during the hours of darkness carry

in the position and manner specified in these regulations–

(a) two lamps each showing to the front a white light visible from

a reasonable distance;

(b) two lamps each showing to the rear a red light visible from a

reasonable distance:

Provided that –

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(i) in the case of bicycles not having a sidecar attached

thereto, whether propelled by mechanical power or not,

and in the case of tricycles not propelled by mechanical

power, and the case of invalid carriages, a single lamp

showing a white light to the front instead of two such

lamps need be carried;

(ii) in the, case of a bicycle propelled by mechanical power

and not having a sidecar attached thereto, only a single

lamp showing a red light to the rear instead of two such

lamps need be carried;

(iii) in the case of bicycles and tricycles not propelled by

mechanical power, it shall not be necessary to carry a

lamp showing a red light to the rear;

(iv) in the case of bicycles not having a sidecar attached

thereto, whether propelled by mechanical power or not,

and in the case of tricycles not propelled by mechanical

power, no lamp need be carried if the bicycle or tricycle

is being wheeled by a person on foot as near as possible

to the right-hand edge of the carriageway; and

(v) in the case of a vehicle drawing another vehicle, lamps

showing a red light need not be carried by the drawing

vehicle and no lamp showing a light to the front need be

carried by the vehicle being drawn.

(2) It shall be the duty of any person who causes or permits a vehicle to

be on any road during the hours of darkness to provide the vehicle with

lamps in accordance with the requirements of this regulation and every such

lamp shall, while the vehicle is on any road during those hours, be kept

properly trimmed, lighted and in a clean and efficient condition.

Obligatory reflectors.

66. (1) Except as provided in sub-regulation (3), every vehicle on any road

shall, during the hours of darkness, carry attached to the vehicle in the

position and manner specified in these regulation; two unobscured and

efficient red reflectors, and it shall be the duty of any person who causes or

permits a vehicle to be on any road during those hours to provide the vehicle

with reflectors in accordance with the requirements of this regulation:

Provided that –

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(i) in the case of a bicycle not propelled by mechanical power or

of a bicycle propelled by mechanical power and not having a

sidecar attached to the vehicle, one reflector only shall be

required; and

(ii) in the case of a vehicle drawing another vehicle, reflectors need

not be carried by the drawing vehicle.

(2) Where a vehicle’s tail light is so constructed that, when not showing

a light, it is an efficient red reflector, it shall be treated for the purposes of

this regulation as being such a reflector when it is, as well as when it is not,

showing a light.

(3) This regulation shall not apply to a horse-drawn vehicle or to a

vehicle drawn or propelled by hand.

Restriction on number and nature of lamps.

67. (1) No vehicle shall show a red light to the front.

(2) No vehicle shall show any light other than a red light to the rear:

Provided that this paragraph shall not apply –

(i) to lamps carried by vehicles for the purposes of the internal

illumination thereof or of illuminating a number plate,

taximeter or any device for giving signals to overtaking traffic,

or in the case of an omnibus for the purpose of illuminating

boards, plates or devices indicating the route or destination of

the omnibus; and

(ii) to a reversing light which complies with the conditions in these

regulations prescribed for such lights.

Flashing lights.

68. No light on any motor vehicle, other than that of a direction indicator,

shall be a flashing or blinking light:

Provided that this regulation shall not apply to vehicles used for fire

brigades, ambulance, police or customs purposes.

Multi-purpose lamps.

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69. Nothing in these regulations shall require a vehicle to carry separate

lamps for different purposes, if it carries a lamp satisfying all the

requirements which would be applicable to separate lamps carried by it for

those purposes.

Front lamps.

Position of obligatory front lamps.

70. (1) Subject to the provisions of regulation 71 every obligatory front

lamp shall –

(a) be so fixed that the centre of the lamp is at a height not

exceeding 1.52 metres from the ground;

(b) except in the case of a tower-wagon or of a bicycle (whether

propelled by mechanical power or not) be so fixed that no part

of the vehicle or its equipment extends laterally on the same

side as the lamp more than 30 centimetres beyond the centre of

the lamp; and

(c) in the case of horse-drawn vehicles, be so fixed that the centre

of the lamp is not –

(i) where such a vehicle has only one axle, behind the axle

of the vehicle, or

(ii) where such a vehicle has more than one axle, more than

46 centimetres behind the front axle when in its central

position.

(2) Where two obligatory front lamps are carried on any vehicle they

shall be fixed on opposite sides of the vehicle and except in the case of a

bicycle having a sidecar attached thereto whether propelled by mechanical

power or not, shall be fixed at the same height from the ground.

(3) Where only one obligatory front lamp is carried on any vehicle that

lamp shall (except in the case of a bicycle whether propelled by mechanical

power or not) be fixed on the left side of the vehicle.

(4) The rated wattage of any bulb fitted in a lamp to which this

regulation applies shall not be less than–

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(a) 18 watts in the case of a main or dipped beam emitted by a

lamp carried by a motor cycle;

(b) 24 watts in the case of a dipped beam or 30 watts in the case of

a main beam emitted by a lamp carried by any other vehicle.

Position of dual-purpose lamp.

71. Where there is carried on a sidecar attached to a bicycle propelled by

mechanical power or on a horse-drawn vehicle or vehicle drawn or

propelled by hand a dual-purpose lamp, such lamp shall be so fixed that no

part (including equipment) of the sidecar, horse-drawn vehicle or vehicle

drawn or propelled by hand, as the case may be, extends laterally on the

same side as the lamp more than 41 centimetres from the nearest part of the

illuminated area of the obligatory front lamp combined in the dual-purpose

lamp.

Character of front lamp.

72. (1) This regulation shall apply to every lamp showing a light to the front

which is derived from an electric bulb or an acetylene burner:

Provided that it shall not apply to –

(a) a lamp used as a direction indicator; or

(b) a lamp fitted with an electric bulb or bulbs, if the power of any

bulb or the total power of all the bulbs which are capable of

being illuminated at the same time does not exceed 7 watts and

the lamp is fitted with frosted glass or other material which has

the effect of diffusing the light.

(2) No lamp to which this regulation applies shall be used on any

vehicle unless such lamp is so constructed, fitted and maintained that the

beam of light emitted therefrom –

(a) is permanently deflected downwards to such an extent that it is

at all times incapable of dazzling any person standing on the

same horizontal plane as the vehicle at a greater distance than

7.60 metres from the lamp whose eye-level is not less than 1.05

metres above that plane; or

(b) can be deflected downwards or both downwards and to the

right at the will of the driver in such manner as to render it

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incapable of dazzling any such person in the circumstances

aforesaid; or

(c) can be extinguished by the operation of a device which at the

same time causes a beam of light to be emitted from a lamp

which complies with paragraph (a) of this sub-regulation; or

(d) can be extinguished by the operation of a device which at the

same time either deflects the beam of light from another lamp

downwards or both downwards and to the right in such manner

as to render it incapable of dazzling any such person in the

circumstances aforesaid, or brings into or leaves in operation a

lamp or lamps (other than the obligatory front lamps) which

complies or comply with paragraph (a) of this sub-regulation.

(3) Every lamp to which this regulation applies carried on a

mechanically propelled vehicle shall be so fixed that the centre of the lamp

is –

(a) not more than 1.05 metres from the ground; and

(b) except in the case of a lamp which is intended to be used only

in conditions of fog or whilst snow is falling, not less than 66

centimetres from the ground:

Provided that this paragraph shall not apply in the case of a vehicle owned

by the Ministry of Defence and constructed or adapted for actual combative

purposes, if its construction or nature is such as to render impracticable

compliance with the provisions of this paragraph.

Markings of electric bulbs.

73. Every electric bulb used in a lamp showing a light to the front fitted to

any mechanically propelled vehicle shall have the wattage thereof indelibly

marked upon the glass or the metal cap thereof in a readily legible manner.

Lighting during the hours of darkness.

73A. (1) This regulation applies to every mechanically propelled

vehicle during the hours of darkness.

(2) No person shall use or cause or permit to be used on any road on any

vehicle to which this regulation applies, any lamp which is used in such a

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manner as to cause undue dazzle or discomfort to oncoming drivers or other

road users.

(3) When a vehicle to which this regulation applies is in motion on any

road within the Inner City its lamps shall be lit at dipped beam at all times.

(4) When a vehicle to which this regulation applies is in motion on any

road outside the Inner City its lamps shall be lit at dipped beam: provided

that the main beam may be used where no undue dazzle or discomfort is

caused to oncoming drivers or other road users.

(5) Subject to regulation 81 no electric bulb or bulbs of a rated wattage

or of a combined rated wattage, as the case may be, exceeding 7 watts in any

lamp showing a light to the front, fitted to any vehicle to which this

regulation applies, shall be kept illuminated while such vehicle is stationary

on a road;

Provided that this paragraph shall not apply–

(a) to lamps used–

(i) on any vehicle during an enforced stoppage of the

vehicle, or

(ii) on any public service vehicle when stopping to pick up

or set down passengers, or

(iii) for the interior illumination of the vehicle, or

(iv) on a breakdown vehicle for the purpose of lighting the

scene of an accident or breakdown;

(b) to searchlights or other lamps fitted to any vehicle used in

connection with any emergency repairs to any main, pipe, cable

or other apparatus while such repairs are being carried out.

Rear lamps.

Position of obligatory rear lamps.

74. (1) Every obligatory rear lamp carried on a mechanically propelled

vehicle or trailer shall be so fixed that –

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(a) it is not more than 76 centimetres from the extreme rear of the

vehicle;

(b) the height from the ground of the highest part of its illuminated

area is not more than 1.05 metres; and

(c) the height from the ground of the lowest part of its illuminated

area is not less than 38 centimetres:

Provided that in the case of a bicycle the longitudinal position of the rear

lamp shall not exceed 50 centimetres from the extreme rear of the bicycle.

(2) Where two obligatory rear lamps are carried on a vehicle they shall

be so fixed that –

(a) one lamp is on each side of the longitudinal axis;

(b) no part of the illuminated area of one lamp is less than 52

centimetres from any part of the illuminated area of the other

lamp; and

(c) the height from the ground of the highest part of the

illuminated area is the same in the case of both lamps.

Character of obligatory rear lamps.

75. (1) Except as provided in sub-regulation (2), every obligatory rear lamp

carried on a mechanically propelled vehicle or trailer shall, if circular, have

an illuminated area of not less than 5 centimetres in diameter or, if not

circular, have an illuminated area of not less than the area of a circle of 5

centimetres in diameter and of such a shape that a circle of 2.50 centimetres

in diameter may be inscribed therein.

(2) Every obligatory rear lamp carried on a bicycle or a sidecar attached

thereto or on a trailer fire pump shall, if circular have an illuminated area of

not less than 3.50 centimetres in diameter or, if not circular, have an

illuminated area of not less than the area of a circle of 3.50 centimetres in

diameter and of such a shape that a circle of 2.50 centimetres in diameter

can be inscribed therein.

(3) Every electric bulb used in an obligatory rear lamp carried on a

vehicle shall have a power of not less than 6 watts and the wattage thereof

indelibly marked upon the glass or metal cap thereof in a readily legible

manner.

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(4) When two obligatory rear lamps are carried on a vehicle, both lamps

shall have the same appearance, when illuminated, and the same area and if

such lamps are electrically operated, the wiring shall be so arranged that in

the event of a failure of a bulb in either of the lamps the other lamp shall not

thereby be extinguished.

Reversing lights.

76. (1) No vehicle shall carry more than two reversing lights.

(2) Every reversing light shall comply with the following conditions:–

(a) it shall be illuminated by electricity;

(b) it shall be so constructed that it cannot be switched on

otherwise than either–

(i) automatically by the selection of the reverse gear of the

vehicle; or

(ii) by the operation of a switch by the driver of the vehicle

which serves no other purpose;

(c) the power of the electric bulb or the total power of all such

bulbs with which it is fitted shall not exceed 24 watts; and

(d) it shall be so constructed, fitted and maintained that the light

emitted thereby is at all times incapable of dazzling any person

who is standing on the same horizontal plane as the vehicle at a

greater distance than 7.60 metres from the light and whose eye-

level is not less than 1.05 metres above that plane.

(3) Where a reversing light is so constructed and fitted that it can be

switched on by the operation of a switch by the driver of the vehicle, the

vehicle shall be equipped with a device so fitted as to be readily visible to

the driver at all times when in his seat and so designed as to indicate when

the reversing light is showing a white light to the rear.

(4) No reversing light shall show a white light to the rear except in so far

as is necessary for the purpose of reversing the vehicle.

Obligatory Reflectors.

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Position of obligatory reflectors.

77. The provisions of regulation 74 which relate to the position of obligatory

rear lamps shall apply mutatis mutandis to obligatory reflectors and the

references in that regulation to the illuminated area of a lamp shall be

construed as being references to the reflecting area of a reflector.

Character of reflectors.

78. Every obligatory reflector shall comply in all respects with the following

conditions:–

(a) the reflector shall be so constructed that if a beam of white

light is thrown squarely in its direction, the reflector shall

reflect a beam of red light;

(b) the reflecting area shall, if circular, be not less than 3.50

centimetres in diameter or, if not circular, be of an area of not

less than the area of a circle of 3.50 centimetres in diameter and

of such a shape that a circle of 2.50 centimetres in diameter

may be inscribed therein;

(c) the reflecting area shall be of a shape as to be capable of lying

wholly within a circle of 15 centimetres in diameter;

(d) the reflector shall be fixed to the vehicle in a vertical position

and facing squarely to the rear;

(e) the reflector shall be kept clean and shall be plainly visible

from the rear.

Group of reflectors.

79. (1) In this regulation a group of reflectors means a group of two or more

reflectors carried by a vehicle, being a group which complies with the

following conditions, that is to say–

(a) each reflector constituting the group shall comply with the

condition contained in paragraph (a) of regulation 78 and shall

have a reflecting area of such a shape that a circle of 2.50

centimetres in diameter can be inscribed in that area;

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(b) the total reflecting area of all the reflectors constituting the

group shall be not less than the area of a circle of 3.50

centimetres in diameter;

(c) the reflectors constituting the group shall be so fixed to the

vehicle that–

(i) not more than 2.50 centimetres shall separate the

reflecting area of each of these reflectors from the

reflecting area of the next reflector to it;

(ii) a circle of 15 centimetres in diameter could be described

around all the reflectors so as to comprise within its area

the whole of the reflecting area of each of the reflectors;

and

(iii) all those reflectors shall be fixed in a single holder.

Exceptions

Vehicles drawn or propelled by hand.

80. (1) If a vehicle drawn or propelled by hand is, together with its load (if

any) not more than 76 centimetres in greatest width, not more than 1.80

metres in greatest length and not more than 1.40 metres in greatest height, it

shall not be necessary for such a vehicle to show any lights provided that it

is kept when in use on a road during the hours of darkness as near as

possible to the right-hand edge of the carriageway.

(2) In the case of a vehicle drawn or propelled by hand which together

with its load (if any) exceeds any of the dimensions set out in sub-regulation

(1) but does not exceed 1.20 metres in greatest width, it shall be necessary

for such vehicle to carry–

(a) only one obligatory front lamp; and

(b) only either one obligatory reflector or one obligatory rear lamp.

(3) In the case of a vehicle drawn or propelled by hand which, together

with its load (if any) exceeds 1.20 metres in greatest width, it shall be

necessary for such vehicle to carry, in addition to two obligatory front

lamps, only either one obligatory reflector or one obligatory rear lamp.

Stationary vehicles.

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81. Notwithstanding the provisions of regulation 65 it shall not be necessary

for a vehicle to show any lights when the vehicle is standing stationary on a

parking place or on any road which is provided with public lighting:

Provided that where a vehicle is so standing on a road the right-hand side

of the vehicle shall be as close as may be and parallel to the right-hand edge

of the carriageway.

82. Revoked.

Existing vehicles.

83. Every motor vehicle registered before the expiration of one year from

the making of any regulation hereof by which the requirements as regards

the positioning or number of lamps permanently attached to the vehicle or

the requirements as regards reflectors are varied shall be exempt from the

requirements of that regulation provided that it complies with the

requirement of the regulations to which it would have been subject

immediately prior to the making of that regulation.

84. Repealed

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SCHEDULE 1

Regulation 17

REQUIREMENTS WITH RESPECT TO THE CONSTRUCTION,

FITTING AND PERFORMANCE OF THE BRAKES OF CERTAIN

MOTOR VEHICLES AND TRAILERS.

Item Class of

vehicle

Class of

trailer

Requirements

1 Passenger vehicles

constructed or adapted to

carry not more than 8

passengers (exclusive of

the driver) and which

either–

(a) have 4 or more wheels

or, if having only 3

wheels, have a gross

weight exceeding

1,000 kilograms; or

(b) have only 3 wheels, a

gross weight of 1,000

kilograms or less and

either a design speed

exceeding 40

kilometres per hour or

an engine capacity

exceeding 50 cubic

centimetres, not being

motor cycles with side-

cars attached.

As set out in relation to

MI vehicles in Annexes I,

II and VIII to the Council

Directive and, if relevant,

in Annexes III, IV, V and

VI to the Council Direc-

tive.

2 Passenger vehicles cons-

tructed or adapted to carry

more than 8 passengers

(exclusive of the driver)

and which have a gross

weight of 5,000 kilograms

or less.

As set out in relation to

category M2 vehicles in

Annexes I, II and VII to

the Council Directive and,

if relevant, m Annexes III,

IV, V and VI

to the

Council Directive.

3 Passenger vehicles As set out in relation to

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constructed or adapted to

carry more than 8

passengers (exclusive of

the driver) and which

have a gross weight

exceeding 5,000

kilograms.

category M3 vehicles in

Annexes I, II and VII to

the Council Directive and,

if relevant, in Annexes III,

IV, V and VI to the

Council Directive.

4

Goods vehicles which

have a gross weight of

3,500 kilograms or less,

not being motor cycles

with sidecars attached.

As set out in relation to

category NI vehicles in

Annexes I, II and VII to

the Council Directive and,

if relevant, in Annexes m,

IV, V and VI to the

Council Directive.

5 Goods vehicles which

have a gross weight ex-

ceeding 3,500 kilograms

but not exceeding 12,000

kilograms.

As set out in relation to

category N2 vehicles in

Annexes I, II and VII to

the Council Directive and,

if relevant, in Annexes

III, IV, V and VI to the

Council Directive.

6 Goods vehicles which

have a gross weight

exceeding 12,000

kilograms.

As set out in relation to

category N3 vehicles in

Annexes I, II and VII to

the Council Directive and,

if relevant, in Annexes

III, IV, V and VI to the

Council Directive.

7

Trailers which have a

gross weight of 750 kilo-

grams or less.

As set out in relation to

category O1 vehicles in

Annexes I, II and VII to

the Council Directive and,

if relevant, in Annexes III,

IV, V, VI and VIII to the

Council Directive.

8

Trailers which have a

gross weight exceeding

750 kilograms but not

As set out in relation to

category O2 vehicles in

Annexes I, II and VII to

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exceeding 3,500

kilograms.

the Council Directive and,

if relevant, in Annexes III,

IV, V, VI and VIII to the

Council Directive.

9

Trailers which have a

gross weight exceeding

3,500 kilograms but not

exceeding 10,000 kilo-

grams.

As set out in relation to

category O3 vehicles in

Annexes I, II and VII to

the Council Directive and,

if relevant, in Annexes III,

IV, V, VI and VIII to the

Council Directive.

10

Trailers which have a

gross weight exceeding

10,000 kilograms.

As set out in relation to

category O4 vehicles in

Annexes I, II and VII to

the Council Directive and,

if relevant, in Annexes III,

IV, V, VI and VIII to the

Council Directive.

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SCHEDULE 2.

Regulation 17A

REQUIREMENTS WITH RESPECT TO THE EFFICIENCY OF THE

BRAKES OF MOTOR VEHICLES.

(1) For the purpose of this Schedule a two-wheeled motor cycle shall

not, by reason that a sidecar is attached thereto, be treated as three wheeled.

(2) In the case of a motor vehicle having at least four wheels and

required to have two means of operating brakes–

(a) if each means of operation applies brakes to at least four

wheels, the brakes as applied by one of the means shall have a

total braking efficiency of not less than 50 per cent, and the

brakes as applied by the other means shall have a total braking

efficiency of not less than 25 per cent;

(b) if only one of the means of operation applies brakes to at least

four wheels, the brakes as applied by that means shall have a

total braking efficiency of not less than 50 per cent and the

brakes as applied by the other means shall have a total braking

efficiency of not less than 25 per cent; and

(c) if neither means of operation applies brakes to at least four

wheels, the brakes as applied by one of the means shall have a

total braking efficiency of not less than 30 per cent and the

brakes as applied by the other means shall have a total braking

efficiency of not less than 25 per cent.

(3) In the case of a three-wheeled motor vehicle required to have two

means of operating brakes–

(a) if each means of operation applies brakes to all three wheels,

the brakes as applied by one of the means shall have a total

braking efficiency of not less than 40 per cent and the brakes as

applied by the other means shall have a total braking efficiency

of not less than 25 per cent.

(b) if only one of the means of operation applies brakes to all three

wheels, the brakes as applied by that means shall have a total

braking efficiency of not less than 40 per cent and the brakes as

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applied by the other means shall have a total braking efficiency

of not less than 25 per cent; and

(c) if neither means of operation applies brakes to all three wheels,

the brakes as applied by one of the means shall have a total

braking efficiency of not less than 30 per cent and the brakes as

applied by other means shall have a total braking efficiency of

not less than 25 per cent.

(4) In the case of a motor vehicle, being a two wheeled motor cycle,

required to have more than one means of operating brakes, the brakes as

applied by one of the means shall have a total braking efficiency of not less

than 30 per cent and the brakes as applied by the other means shall have a

total braking efficiency of not less than 25 per cent.

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SCHEDULE 3

Regulation 24A

Class IV mirrors

Wide-angle” exterior mirror.

1. “Wide-angle”’ exterior mirror on the driver’s side.

The field of vision must be such that the driver can see at least a 15metre-

wide, flat, horizontal portion of the road, which is bounded by a plane

parallel to the median longitudinal vertical plane of the vehicle and passing

through the outermost point of the vehicle on the driver’s side and which

extends from at least 10 to 25 metres behind the driver’s ocular points.

In addition, the road must be visible to the driver over a width of 4.5

metres, which is bounded by a plane parallel to the median longitudinal

vertical plane and passing through the outermost point of the vehicle starting

from a point 1.5 metres behind the vertical plane passing through the

driver’s ocular points (see Figure 1).

2. “Wide-angle” exterior mirror on the passenger’s side.

The field of vision must be such that the driver can see at least a 15

metres-wide, flat, horizontal portion of the road, which is bounded by a

plane parallel to the median longitudinal vertical plane of the vehicle and

passing through the outermost point of the vehicle on the passenger’s side

and which extends from at least 10 to 25 metres behind the driver’s ocular

points.

In addition, the road must be visible to the driver over a width of 4.5

metres, which is bounded by a plane parallel to the median longitudinal

vertical plane and passing through the outermost point of the vehicle starting

from a point 1.5 metres behind the vertical plane passing through the

driver’s ocular points (see Figure 1).

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Figure 1: Field of vision of Class IV wide-angle mirrors

Class V mirrors

3. “Close-proximity” exterior mirror.

The field of vision must be such that the driver can see a flat

horizontal portion of the road along the side of the vehicle,

bounded by the following vertical planes (see Figures 2 and 3)

(a) the plane parallel to the median longitudinal vertical plane of

the vehicle which passes through the outermost point of the

vehicle cab on the passenger’s side;

(b) in the transverse direction, the parallel plane passing at a

distance of 2 metres in front of the plane mentioned in

subparagraph (a);

(c) to the rear, the plane parallel to the vertical plane passing

through the driver’s ocular points and situated at a distance of

1.75 metres behind that plane;

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(d) to the front, the plane parallel to the vertical plane passing

through the driver’s ocular points and situated at a distance of 1

metre in front of that plane. If the vertical transverse plane

passing through the leading edge of the vehicle bumper is less

than 1 metre in front of the vertical plane passing through the

driver’s ocular points, the field of vision shall be limited to that

plane.

(e) in case the field of vision described in Figures 2 and 3 can be

perceived through the combination of the field of vision from a

Class IV wide-angle mirror and that of a Class VI front mirror,

the installation of a Class V close proximity mirror is not

compulsory.

Figure 2

Figure 3