Millions risking a blowout by driving on under inflated tyres, research suggests

Half of drivers admit to ignoring low tyre pressure warning light

Millions risking a blowout by driving on under inflated tyres, research suggests

Millions of drivers in the UK are risking a tyre blowout by driving on underinflated rubber, new research has found.

Data gathered by Halfords shows that 23 million road users are driving on the roads with underinflated tyres with many unable to determine what level is too low.

Analysis from the firm found that just 40 per cent of road users across the UK could correctly identify the low tyre pressure warning light.

In a worrying find, 50 per cent of drivers said they have simply ignored it.

Related: Device that significantly reduces tyre emissions gets James Dyson Award

Just 68 per cent of drivers said they know the correct tyre pressure for their vehicle which clearly identifies a genuine knowledge gap among motorists.

A total of 23 per cent said they would not feel confident enough to put air into their tyres themselves at a petrol station.

Meanwhile, 15 per cent of road users have claimed it was acceptable to drive on the motorway with underinflated rubber.

Watch: Farmer returns 421 waste tyres to fly-tipper’s doorstep

Halfords Tyres on the Drive operations director, Karl Baker said: “Defective tyres are costly and deadly, and our research shows that many motorists aren’t aware of the dangers of driving around with underinflated tyres.

“They affect your car’s handling and steering, give you reduced grip, wear quicker and are more prone to a blowout – yet this can be fixed in a matter of minutes.”

Halfords has revealed that on average drivers check their tyres for any pressure or tread issues once every 14 weeks.

Police officers can issue a £2,500 charge and three penalty points for each tyre which they consider to be underinflated.

Related: Vast majority of part worn tyre retailers failing to meet legal requirements

Have your say!

0 0

Lost Password

Please enter your username or email address. You will receive a link to create a new password via email.