As winter draws near and evenings grow darker, it’s essential to conduct a thorough check on your vehicles. National Highways is emphasizing the importance of checking your tyres as part of their seasonal TRIP campaign. Neglecting these checks can have serious consequences, especially with new data showing that there are six million illegal tyres on UK roads.
Statistics reveal a concerning trend, with 190 individuals killed or seriously injured in 2023 due to defective tyres, a 29% rise from the previous year. Colin Stevenson, National Highways’ road safety information lead, highlights the critical role tyres play in road safety, underscoring the need for drivers to prioritize tyre maintenance.
In 2024, over 53,000 tyre-related breakdowns occurred on motorways and major A roads, accounting for nearly 20% of all breakdowns. A significant portion of drivers believes that thorough tyre checks prior to travel could have prevented breakdowns on the motorway.
Transport Minister Simon Lightwood stresses the importance of road safety, supporting initiatives to reduce tyre-related incidents. Driving with defective tyres not only violates the law but also poses serious risks, particularly as weather conditions deteriorate. Taking a few minutes to ensure tyre safety can prevent accidents and breakdowns.
The ongoing campaign by National Highways, in collaboration with TyreSafe, aims to raise awareness about tyre safety throughout October and November. TyreSafe’s focus on the significance of tyre checks in daily life emphasizes the importance of this simple yet life-saving habit. Regular checks for tread, pressure, and damage can prevent long-lasting consequences.
For more information on National Highways’ seasonal T.R.I.P. campaign and tyre maintenance tips, visit the official website.