With Easter and a number of bank holidays just around the corner, TyreSafe has revealed a number of key considerations for drivers travelling long distances, especially caravan owners.
TyreSafe has advised all holidaymakers driving their caravans this summer to give their tyres a full 'health check' before leaving home.
It warned that caravans that are left outdoors over the winter might be at risk of rubber degradation and need to be repaired before being used again.
"Exposure to the elements for long periods without movement can be a real cause of rubber damage to caravan tyres, often seen by cracking or a drop in pressure. Therefore it's vital to ensure that the tyres are properly inspected before use and correctly maintained," explained Stuart Jackson, chairman at TyreSafe.
Degradation occurs when UV rays penetrate tyres, attacking the rubber ingredients that give tyres resilience and flexibility, said TyreSafe. British car and caravan owners can detect this problem when their tyres appear under-inflated, which can end up in a terrifying high speed blow-out, according to the UK's leading tyre safety organisation.
Further problems drivers should be aware of include bulges, cuts or lumps in the tyres, which can also cause damage.
"With the correct care and attention your tyres will help to ensure you arrive safely at your holiday destination safely, without disruption and with minimal cost," added Jackson.
The importance of car tyres
TyreSafe stressed that the importance of tyres is in the fact that they are the only part of the car that is in actual contact with the road. Therefore, actions such as acceleration, braking, steering and cornering all rely on the tyres' relatively small contact area with the road surface.
To prevent any possible accidents TyreSafe recommends that UK drivers check their tyres and pay particular attention to the tread and sidewall areas.
"Any sign of cracking should result in the motorist seeking professional advice or replacing the tyre," said TyreSafe.
