Van drivers warned over rise in poor tyre maintenance

ERJ staff report (LMH)

Colchester, England -- An increasing number of UK van drivers are at risk of causing an accident due to poor tyre conditions, according to tyre safety group, Tyre Safe.

The not-for-profit organisation, made the comments as it launched a van safety information service on its website. In a 21 Feb statement, Tyre Safe said “condition of tyres” remains the most frequent defect found at spot checks on light goods vehicles across the UK.

The group cited the latest VOSA (Vehicle and Operator Services Agency) effectiveness report, which says the incidence rate has increased by almost 6 percent in 2009/10 from 20 percent in 2007/08 and 2008/09.

“Van tyres lead a particularly hard life so it is critical that operators regularly check the condition of their tyres for signs of damage or premature and uneven wear,” said Stuart Jackson, chairman, TyreSafe.

“Building site debris or regular scuffing on kerbs during delivery drops can cause significant damage to tyres. If left unchecked, they may fail at a critical moment, risking serious injury for the driver and other road users.”

The safety organisation noted that responsibility for the condition of tyres lies with both the van driver and the business itself. Drivers found on the road illegal tyres face penalty points and fines.

Tyre Safe also noted that as well as punitive measures, businesses face additional costs due to lower fuel economy rates and quicker wear times.

This is an external link and should open in a new window. If the window does not appear, please check your pop-up blocking software. ERJ is not responsible for the content of external sites.

Press release from TyreSafe

TyreSafe on Twitter

European Road Safety Charter