Statistics reveal tyre risk for fleets

More than 11,000 tyre-related incidents took place on England’s motorways and major roads last winter, statistics released today reveal.

The incidents include punctures and blow outs which put road users and road workers in risk of danger. Most took place between October and December.

The statistics have been released by the Highways Agency in support of Tyre Safety Month, this October, which is organised by Tyre Safe, a not for profit UK tyre safety organisation that raises awareness of the dangers of worn, unsafe or defective tyres.

Also as part of the month, Stuart Jackson, the chair of Tyre Safe, presented Highways Agency Traffic Officers in the North West with special tyre safety gauges to hand out to drivers to give practical advice about tyre safety.

This year the focus of Tyre Safety Month is urging drivers to ensure tyres are ready for wet weather by checking that they have enough tread. This can be done easily using a 20 pence piece: if you can see the outer rim of the coin when it’s inserted into the main grooves of the tyre then they should be checked by a tyre professional.

Simon Sheldon-Wilson, Highways Agency director of customer operations, said: “It’s important to ensure that your tyres are ready for winter and that includes the kind of wet weather we saw last year.

“By checking your tyres at least once a month, you can make sure you have enough tread to control your vehicle in wet conditions and avoid aquaplaning at high speeds which could lead to disastrous consequences.

“There were 11,057 tyre related incidents on motorways and major A roads in England last winter – don’t become a statistic and check your tyres are safe today.”

Jackson added: “Last year was the wettest winter on record. Ahead of any wet weather we may encounter this winter, we’re reminding drivers to check that their tyres’ tread depth is deep enough to manage driving in wet conditions.

“Having adequate tread depth means the tyres will be able to handle wet weather much better, remaining in control and reducing the real risk of aquaplaning.”