Data from the Department for Transport shows that deaths and injuries in 2013 were often caused by defects in tyres.
The figures have highlighted the need for drivers to keep up their vehicle maintenance and ensure that their tyres are in good condition. 40% of deaths on the road which were related to vehicle defects were attributed to tyres being illegal, under-inflated or defective.
During 2013 there were 2,855 casualties caused by vehicle defects and of these, 968 were deemed to be caused or contributed to by dangerous tyres.
“The latest figures are very worrying and sadly reflect a general attitude of indifference by many drivers towards checking their tyres regularly,” comments Stuart Jackson, chairman of TyreSafe.
“As the only part of your car in contact with the road, it’s vital that your tyres are looked after correctly and inspected regularly to ensure they will work properly in emergency situations when they are needed most.”
October will see the start of tyre safety month and many major tyre retailers will be offering free tyre safety checks in an effort to reduce the numbers of vehicles on the road with dangerous tread levels.
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