The weather has definitely taken a turn for the worse in Ballymena and that means it is time to carry out some tyre safety checks. October is Tyre Safety month and tyresafe.org are encouraging drivers to check their tyre pressures.
More than half the tyres on Britain’s cars and vans are being driven under-inflated. That increases their chances of being involved in a tyre-related incident on the roads. Not only does the vehicle become more difficult to control, the amount of tyre in contact with the road can be halved. If it isn’t touching the road properly, a tyre’s grip is compromised, meaning it takes longer to stop, especially in the wet.
Driving with underinflated tyres also runs up unnecessary bills. A tyre can wear 10% more quickly if it’s 10% below the manufacturer’s recommended settings and the extra effort needed to turn the wheels means the vehicle burns use more fuel.
In fact, research by TyreSafe shows an extra £600* million is potentially being spent on fuel bills by drivers because their tyres are under-inflated. It’s also adding to the amount of CO2 the vehicle burns.
To reduce the risks while driving and save themselves money, drivers are reminded to check their air pressures at least once a month and before long journeys.
Stuart Jackson, Chairman of TyreSafe, said: “Keeping tyres properly inflated is easy to do, keeps drivers and other road users safe, and saves money. It’s a win-win situation so it’s remarkable how many motorists don’t ensure the pressures are correct for the vehicle and the load it is carrying. Tyre Safety Month is the ideal time to start the routine of ensuring every driving day is a good air day.” (Source).
Photo by Vlad Grebenyev on Unsplash
If you don’t know what your tyre pressure should be then check the user manual or look inside the car door or inside the petrol cap. These are all places where information is displayed. Check you tyre pressures this month to make sure that you are safe, road worthy and prepared for a long journey.
If you notice that any of your tyres are bald or need to be replaced then call in with Ballymena Tyres on Warden Street in Ballymena. They are expects who will help you to get replacement tyres at the best price. Call 028 2565 2518 for more information.