HomeArticlesTyre Safety for Van and Commercial Vehicle Drivers
Safety Tips4 min read18 June 2025

Tyre Safety for Van and Commercial Vehicle Drivers

Commercial vehicle tyres carry heavier loads at higher pressures. Here's what fleet drivers and owner-operators need to know.

Van and commercial vehicle tyres operate under significantly more demanding conditions than standard car tyres — higher load ratings, heavier vehicles, and often near-constant daily use. For delivery drivers, tradespeople, and fleet operators across West Yorkshire, tyre safety is not just a legal obligation but a genuine business risk management issue.

Higher Pressures, Higher Stakes

Commercial vehicle tyres are typically inflated to higher pressures than car tyres — often 60–80 PSI compared to 30–35 PSI for a typical car. This higher pressure increases the consequences of a blowout and means pressure checks are even more critical. Check pressures at minimum weekly for vehicles in daily use, and always before loading to maximum capacity.

Load Index Compliance

Every tyre has a maximum load rating, and exceeding it — even briefly or by a small margin — dramatically increases failure risk and heat generation. Commercial operators must ensure the tyres fitted to their vehicles meet the required load index for the vehicle's maximum permitted weight. Fitting car tyres to a commercial vehicle is illegal and dangerous.

Tread Depth for Commercial Vehicles

The same 1.6mm legal minimum applies to light commercial vehicles. However, given the heavier vehicles and increased stopping distances involved, many fleet operators enforce an internal replacement policy at 3mm or higher. Regular tyre inspections by a professional tyre fitter — particularly after high-mileage weeks — are a sound investment.

Mobile Van Tyre Fitting for West Yorkshire Businesses

Pegasus Mobile Tyres offers scheduled and emergency tyre services for commercial fleets across West Yorkshire. We can attend your depot, yard, or roadside location to minimise downtime and keep your vehicles compliant and road-safe.

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#van tyres#commercial tyres#fleet tyres#West Yorkshire