Forget flowers and chocolates this Valentine’s Day, the gift you really should give is a few minutes of your time. Nothing makes a set of tyres feel more loved than a driver who regularly spends time together with them, paying attention to tread, sidewall and air pressure. UK road safety charity TyreSafe points out that most motorists fail to do this, with only a third checking their vehicle’s tyre tread at least once a month – the minimum frequency recommended by road safety experts.
With 14 February fast approaching, ask yourself – are those tyres receiving the loving attention they deserve and need to keep you and your passengers safe? Just a few minutes each week will make all the difference.
What’s more, the RAC, which commissioned the poll with TyreSafe, warned that neglecting regular tyre checks significantly increases the risk of incidents and fines, in addition to causing untold unnecessary disruptions on UK roads. With National Highways reporting over 50,000 breakdowns on the UK’s A roads and motorways each year alone, appropriate tyre maintenance not only mitigates the risk of incidents causing injury, or worse, but also reduces the disruption and associated cost of unnecessary breakdowns. All of which could put a real dampener on any Valentines’ date night.
TyreSafe’s latest campaign encourages drivers to ‘ACT’ on tyre safety, focusing on three simple yet vital areas:
- Air Pressure: Highlighting the need to keep tyres adequately inflated to ensure optimal performance and fuel efficiency.
- Condition: Urging motorists to inspect their tyres regularly for any signs of damage, such as cuts, bulges, or other issues that might compromise safety.
- Tread: Stressing the importance of maintaining sufficient tread depth for effective grip and braking.
“Tyres are the only contact point between a vehicle and the road, yet they’re often overlooked. Our ‘Love Your Tyres’ campaign is a playful but timely reminder for road users to give their tyres the attention they deserve. By performing simple, regular checks, road users can help keep themselves, their passengers, and others safe while avoiding costly fines and breakdowns,” says Stuart Lovatt, TyreSafe Chair.
TyreSafe is supporting the campaign with a range of social media graphics and downloadable guides for road users. The campaign aims to empower drivers with the knowledge and tools they need to take proactive steps in tyre safety.
“This February, show your tyres some love – it could save your life,” TyreSafe concludes.
(Source: TyreSafe)
