With the cost-of-living crisis showing no signs of lifting any time soon, TyreSafe is urging drivers and riders not to compromise on their safety.
Tyres are a vital, safety critical component, arguably the most important for staying safe on the roads. Replacing tyres is costly but trying to save a few pennies can be a false economy. Ultimately, how well a vehicle accelerates, brakes and corners is down to the tyres being in good roadworthy condition.
TyreSafe’s ‘Safe and Save’ campaign for Tyre Safety Month this October helps drivers and riders to understand how they can save by looking after their tyres, and highlights the checks which will help them stay safe while saving.
With a playful yet impactful approach, ‘Safe and Save’ aims to educate and empower those who use our roads across various groups to prioritise tyre safety, save money, and reduce risks associated with defective tyres. The campaign is a timely reminder of the simple, but effective changes road users can make to achieve meaningful savings.
Many of us have been given semi-useful ‘hacks’ on how to save money, and some of these feature in the ‘Safe and Save’ campaign. TyreSafe estimates UK motorists waste a staggering average of £1 billion each year on fuel due to driving on underinflated tyres. Driving with underinflated tyres also accelerates tyre wear, meaning they need replacing prematurely.
This wastage not only impacts motorists’ wallets but also puts them at a higher risk of being involved in an incident.
‘Safe and Save’ also draws attention to the false economy buying part worns tyres can represent. Legally, a part worn need only have a minimum of 2mm of tread, which compares with 6mm or 7mm of a new tyre. While the price tag maybe lower, they will need replacing quicker, not only adding financial cost but also time.
With research showing there is still good cause to be concerned about the safety of some part worn tyres being sold, TyreSafe recommends vehicle owners buy new when possible. Most new tyre retailers now offer interest free payment solutions, allowing owners to buy immediately and spread the cost over time, helping motorists stay safe and save.