Recent data reveals that three in five young drivers admit they never check their tyres, a concerning statistic given that, according to TyreSafe’s 2023 Tread Depth Survey, approximately six million tyres with illegal tread are currently on UK roads. The risks associated with tyre neglect are significant, as illegal or poorly maintained tyres account for over 1/5 of all breakdowns on the UK’s strategic road network.
Students and their families can no longer rely on reaching for the spare, in the event of a tyre incident, with the RAC reporting that only 3% of new cars sold come equipped with a spare wheel.
For those driving an older vehicle, TyreSafe urges drivers to ask themselves if they even know if they have a spare tyre, and whether it is serviceable. In the event that the vehicle does not have a spare tyre, do they know whether their car has run-flat tyres or a tyre repair kit (often a sealant and compressor)? If it’s the latter, TyreSafe also urges drivers to check the expiry date on any puncture repair kits, before heading off, to avoid finding themselves stranded with inappropriate and ineffective tyre repair sealant. In addition, making sure they know how to use their repair kits.
Stuart Lovatt, TyreSafe Chair said “With more students hitting the road to head to university, many for the first time, it’s crucial that they take a few minutes to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy. Many young drivers may be unfamiliar with driving long distances, especially on motorways or with a fully loaded vehicle.
"In addition, families will likely hit the road heavily laden, and then return home having offloaded people and goods, meaning pressures need to be adjusted accordingly. Proper tyre checks and overall vehicle safety can prevent unnecessary breakdowns and incidents, ensuring a safer journey for everyone.”
TyreSafe’s ‘Back to University Car Checklist’, provides road users with an easy to follow safety guide to help their trip go smoothly:
- Ensure all tyres are in good condition, free from damage, and have a tread depth of at least 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre.
- Adjust tyre pressures according to the vehicle’s load to prevent blowouts and improve fuel efficiency.
- Check that engine oil levels are sufficient, windscreen wash is topped up, and other fluids are at appropriate levels.
- Ensure the rear window is clear of obstructions to maintain full visibility, especially when carrying heavy loads.
- Set phones to car mode to avoid distractions and stay focused on the road.
- Observe speed limits, including variable speed limits on motorways, and adjust driving according to road conditions.
With the UCAS data showing a 0.7% increase in applications from UK 18-year-olds this year—the second highest on record—the roads will likely see a higher volume of young drivers. Additionally, international student numbers have also risen by 0.7%, further contributing to the need for heightened road safety awareness. TyreSafe is also urging parents taking their children to university to perform crucial checks on their vehicle before setting off to help mitigate the risk of a tyre related incident, particularly as cars are likely to be heavily loaded, and journeys may be longer than every day travelling.
As students prepare for the journey back to university, TyreSafe encourages everyone to take these simple precautions to avoid tyre-related incidents and ensure a safe start to the academic year.
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