Tyre Safety Crisis: The Growing Dangers and How to Protect Yourself
The Department for Transport’s latest report on "Reported Road Casualties Great Britain" has shown a concerning increase in tyre-related casualties on our roads. The report highlights a 29% rise in serious tyre-related accidents, underscoring an urgent need for action to address tyre safety.
TyreSafe, the UK’s leading tyre safety organisation, has responded with calls for immediate change. Dedicated to raising awareness about tyre maintenance and safety, TyreSafe campaigns for proper tyre checks and stricter reporting measures to ensure drivers understand the risks posed by unroadworthy tyres.
The Real Cost of Tyre Neglect
The recent increase in Killed or Seriously Injured (KSI) incidents due to tyre issues—rising from 147 in 2022 to 190 in 2023—is the highest number recorded since 2018. As it stands, these numbers mirror mobile phone-related incidents, revealing the serious impact of ignoring tyre maintenance. TyreSafe has noted that poor tyre conditions, whether underinflated, worn, or damaged, drastically increase the risk of serious accidents. In many cases, drivers may be unaware of the risks they face daily, especially during wet or icy conditions.
Stuart Lovatt, Chair of TyreSafe, stated, “We cannot afford to be complacent when it comes to tyre safety. The increase in KSI casualties is deeply troubling and demonstrates that current efforts in both supporting road users to check their tyres and reporting measures are not sufficient to reflect the scale of the issue.”
Essentials for Tyre Safety: A Quick Check Guide
To encourage safer practices, TyreSafe offers a simple checklist to help motorists remember essential maintenance:
• Air Pressure: Check tyre pressure using an accurate gauge and adjust according to the vehicle’s load. Incorrect tyre pressure can affect handling and fuel efficiency and is a leading cause of tyre-related incidents.
• Condition: Visually inspect tyres for cracks, bulges, or foreign objects, as these could indicate hidden damage.
• Tread Depth: In the UK, tyres must have a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm, which can be checked easily with a 20p coin. To check your tyre tread depth, place a 20p coin into the main grooves around the tyre’s surface. If you can see the coin's outer rim at any point, the tread may be too shallow and should be professionally checked, as it might be below the legal limit.
MotorEasy Tyre Fitting Service: Keep Your Family Safe on the Road
Choosing MotorEasy’s Tyre Fitting Service means expert care for one of the most crucial parts of your vehicle. With convenient online booking, professional fitting, and regular discounts, we can help you stay safe while saving you time and money.
Visit our Tyre Fitting Page to find out more and book an appointment. Keeping your tyres in good shape not only helps you drive with confidence but also contributes to safer roads for everyone.
