TyreSafe is proud to support National Highways’ latest TRIP campaign, which this season places the spotlight on the “I” for Inspect. With autumn bringing shorter days, wetter roads, and more challenging driving conditions, the campaign reinforces the vital need for motorists to inspect their tyres before setting off.
Tyre-related breakdowns remain one of the most common causes of disruption on the UK’s roads. In 2024 alone, more than 53,000 tyre-related breakdowns were recorded on motorways and major A roads alone, nearly one in five of all incidents. The risks are clear: underinflated, damaged, or worn tyres not only increase the likelihood of a collision but also contribute to delays, unnecessary repair costs, and added stress for drivers.
Worryingly, research shows 55% of drivers admit they don’t check their tyres’ tread depth before embarking on a long journey, and almost half (48%) don’t regularly check their tyre pressure. As a result, as many as six million tyres in the UK each year are found to have tread below the legal limit at the point of replacement, a serious safety risk that could also lead to a fine of up to £2,500 per tyre and three penalty points. This comes against a stark backdrop: in 2024, 172 people were killed or seriously injured in tyre-related incidents.
The TRIP campaign, which aligns with TyreSafe’s Tyre Safety Month running throughout October, is a reminder that inspecting tyres is one of the simplest and most effective ways for drivers to stay safe on the roads. Simple checks for tread, pressure, and condition take just minutes but can make a life-saving difference. Drivers are encouraged to follow the ACT principle, checking Air pressure, Condition, and Tread, as a quick and reliable routine that can prevent breakdowns and save lives. These three checks take just minutes but can make a life-saving difference.
Stuart Lovatt, TyreSafe Chair, said: “Too many lives are still being put at risk because drivers neglect something as basic, yet as vital, as their tyres. National Highways’ TRIP campaign highlights the dangers of ignoring tyre safety and complements TyreSafe’s own vision of zero harm to road users on the UK’s roads due to illegal and poorly maintained tyres. By taking a few moments to inspect tyres before a journey, drivers can protect themselves, their passengers, and everyone else on the road. Safe tyres aren’t optional, they’re essential.”
As part of the campaign, drivers will also be encouraged to make informed choices when replacing tyres by understanding tyre ratings and labelling. National Highways is additionally developing accessible resources to support disabled drivers in carrying out essential safety checks.
Together, TyreSafe and National Highways are urging every driver to make tyre safety a non-negotiable part of their routine this autumn: inspect, check, and stay safe.
