As the driver, you are responsible for fully complying with traffic laws and regulations and maintaining the highest standards of driving.

Vehicle Maintenance

You need to ensure that the vehicle is well maintained, so routinely check:

• Tyre condition including pressure and tread
• Engine oil
• Screen wash
• Windscreen wipers
• Lights are working

It is advisable to check these on a weekly basis and keep a record of these checks in the pharmacy.

Mobile phones 

Do not use a mobile phone, or other hand-held device when driving. Even a hands free device can be distracting and you can still be prosecuted if you’re not in proper control of your vehicle with the penalties being the same as using a hand-held phone.

The Highway Code 

Drive in a safe and appropriate manner at all times, ensuring all passengers legally wear seat belts and that you observe The Highway Code. 

Weather

If adverse weather conditions develop and you do not feel safe driving, it is acceptable to cease a journey as soon as you can and wait for conditions to improve, but you must stay in touch with your pharmacy so they know where you are. Remember that it can take ten times longer to stop on wet, icy or snowy roads than dry roads.

Breakdown

In the event of a breakdown or accident keep the safety equipment you require inside your vehicle, which should include a high visibility jacket, warning triangle, torch and some basic items such as warm clothes or a blanket for cold weather and emergency food/drink. You should regularly check this equipment is in good repair.

Loading Your Vehicle

The laws on safely loading a vehicle are strict, breaking them can mean fines for drivers of up to £5,000 for each offence. Even if you did not load the vehicle you are still responsible for it. Make sure your load is safely secured before you set out on a journey. You can read more about safely securing loads by clicking here.