RISK: Young drivers failing to check tyres
Maintenance-neglecting young drivers are at a greater risk of being involved in a tyre-related accident, a new survey has found.
The poll, by TyreSafe and Ingenie, found that a lack of regular tyre maintenance by drivers aged 18-25 is putting lives at risk.
According to the survey, a third of 18-25 year-olds had never checked their tread depth, with two-thirds failing to do so within the past month.
A quarter confessed they had never checked their tyre pressures, with three in five admitting they had not checked them in the past month.
The research also highlighted the need to better educate young drivers about the importance of proper tyre care.
Almost half admitted they did not know how to check their tyre condition, with 57% not knowing legal tyres are a driver’s responsibility.
A massive 85% were unaware the maximum fine for driving on an illegal tyre is £2,500, with a third unaware drivers could receive three points for the offence.
Stuart Jackson, Chairman of TyreSafe, said: “Regular basic tyre maintenance is a critical element of being a safe and responsible driver, yet these latest findings would suggest that this message is being lost on young drivers today.
“We saw an increase last year in the number of tyre related road casualties and if we fail to take immediate action in educating young drivers about the need to look after their tyres properly, sadly we can only expect to see this figure rise further.”
Richard King, Founder and CEO of Ingenie, added: “With almost half of young drivers never having been shown how to check the condition of their tyres, it’s clear that we need to do more to ensure they have the right knowledge in this area.”
Tread depth and tyre pressure checks are important for safe driving as they ensure the car can brake, accelerate, corner and handle properly.
These are of particular importance during the winter months as worsening weather conditions make driving more hazardous.
However, according to TyreSafe, monthly checks can help to minimise safety risks and need only take a few minutes to complete.
