The warning comes from Richard Turfitt (pictured), senior traffic commissioner, who disqualified a sole trader last month for failing to make sufficient improvements to vehicle safety standards.
At a public inquiry, the regulator heard that the Aylesbury-based operator had not reviewed his compliance, despite convictions for an overloaded vehicle and the use of a vehicle without an O licence.
Turfitt was told of stretched maintenance inspections, incomplete PMI records, drivers failing to record defects and a lack of dynamic brake performance testing.
He said the case should be a reminder that prompt and effective action is critical when vehicle and driver safety issues are identified.
Click the link below to see the DVSA’s guide to maintaining roadworthiness.