Road Safety Week, running from 16-22 November 2025, is a nationwide campaign led by the road safety charity Brake, who are dedicated to preventing road deaths and injuries while supporting victims of road crashes.
This year’s theme is ‘safe vehicles save lives’, which highlights the responsibility that every driver has to ensure their vehicle is well-maintained and roadworthy – not only for their own protection, but for everyone around them.
Brake’s research shows just how important road safety is: each year, more than 1,700 people lose their lives on UK roads, and another 30,000 receive serious, life-changing injuries.
For taxi drivers who work long hours, often in busy towns and cities, the risks can be higher. With that in mind, it’s vital for taxi drivers to take extra steps to be safe on the roads, for both themselves and their passengers. Paying attention to road safety can also help reduce the number of taxi insurance claims that arise from avoidable accidents.
Safety tips for taxi drivers
Staying safe on the road starts with looking after yourself, as well as your vehicle. Incorporating small habits into your day-to-day routine can make a big difference in improving safety on the road.
You should aim to:
- Take regular breaks – short, planned breaks will keep you alert and focused during long shifts.
- Eat well and stay hydrated – keeping snacks and water in your vehicle will help maintain energy levels to help you focus.
- Get plenty of sleep – proper rest is essential for a job that requires constant attention on the road.
- Take precaution in extreme weather – adjust your driving, allow more time for journeys, and make sure your vehicle is equipped for the weather in heavy snow or heatwaves.
- Keep your vehicle well-maintained – regular MOT checks are vital, but so is ongoing maintenance between tests.
Vehicle checks before every journey
Taxi drivers already know that their vehicle is their livelihood. Keeping it in top condition is important for work, but it’s also vital to ensure the safety of yourself and your passengers.
While regular MOTs play an important role, carrying out quick checks before each journey can help you spot small issues early, preventing them from turning into serious hazards.
Brake recommends using the acronym FLOWER as a simple way to remember what to look for when checking your vehicle:
- Fuel: make sure you have enough fuel for your journey.
- Lights: check your headlights, brake lights, and indicators are working.
- Oil: make sure oil levels are well above minimum, especially if it’s cold.
- Water/fluids: check water levels, power steering, windscreen, and brake fluid.
- Electrics: check your battery is present and secure.
- Rubber: look at tyre pressure, uneven wear, side wall damage, and tread.
Remember that failing to keep your vehicle in a safe condition can have serious consequences. Drivers can face fines of up to £2,500, receive three penalty points, and even be banned from driving. For taxi drivers, the risks are even greater, as unsafe driving can result in suspension or loss of your taxi badge.
Professional servicing
Regular, professional servicing keeps your taxi running smoothly and helps maintain the highest safety standards for you and your passengers.
Brake emphasises the importance of leaving repairs of safety-critical components to the experts. You should always get a qualified mechanic to work on your vehicle and have it serviced in line with your vehicle handbook.
Final thoughts
If you’re a taxi driver, it’s important to remember that working long hours on busy roads means that road safety is essential for protecting yourself, your passengers, and the general public. By taking care of yourself and keeping your vehicle in top condition, you can reduce risks and make the roads safer for everyone. Safe vehicles save lives, and safety starts with you.
