Tread depth is key focus of tyre safety month 2009

9 September 2009

Campaign materials for October’s tyre safety month, which will focus on tread depth and will encourage drivers to check and replace any illegal tyres on their vehicle, are now available.

The campaign, backed by RoadSafe, will use the theme of a ‘life saver in your pocket’ and will give motorists advice on how to check to see if their tyres may be illegal, by using a 20p coin.

“Tyre safety month provides the entire garage and tyre industry with a fantastic opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of tyre safety,” said Stuart Jackson, chairman of TyreSafe and a RoadSafe partner.

“There are still far too many accidents and fatalities in the UK that occur as a result of illegal or unsafe tyres. By taking part in this month of concentrated activity, garages, tyre dealers and other organisations can help spread this vital safety message and help reduce the number of casualties and accidents on our roads.”

Current UK law stipulates that tyres on passenger cars must have at least 1.6mm of tread across the central three-quarters of the tyre, around its whole circumference. As well as significantly increasing the likelihood of being involved in an accident, drivers who flout these laws face fines of up to £2,500 and three penalty points per illegal tyre.

As well as working with garages and tyre retailers, TyreSafe will be working closely with other organisations such as the Highways Agency, insurers and breakdown organisations to help spread tyre safety messages to their own staff, customers and stakeholders.

Further information is available at www.tyresafe.org or by calling 0845 301 6852.