Are you aware that worn tyres are responsible for approximately 200 accidents every day in South Africa?
According to the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), burst tyres are the leading cause of vehicle-related accidents in South Africa, accounting for a staggering 73% of failures. Shockingly, in just one year, 67,893 drivers received notices for driving with worn tyres. This means that nearly 200 accidents are waiting to happen each day. The statistics are alarming, and it’s crucial to take action to prevent such accidents.
In a recent survey conducted by Sumitomo Rubber SA, it was revealed that approximately 60% of second-hand tyres in South Africa are illegal. This shocking statistic highlights the dangers of opting for used tyres that could compromise your safety and that of others on the road.
Overheating, increased puncture risk, longer stopping distances, and aquaplaning are just a few of the dangerous consequences that can lead to accidents.
Research by the AAA demonstrates that a worn tyre reduces the handling ability of a passenger car by a staggering 33%, putting your life and the lives of your loved ones at risk.
Here are some essential tips for ensuring your safety on the road:
✅ Spec inspection: Ensure your vehicle’s tyres meet size, speed, and load rating requirements.
✅ Root in research: Make informed decisions when purchasing new tyres, considering rolling resistance, fuel consumption, grip, aquaplaning resistance, and stopping power in all weather conditions.
✅ Read the dots: Check the 4-digit DOT code on new tyres to ensure they are not too old.
✅ Used and bruised: Avoid purchasing second-hand tyres, especially those that have been illegally “re-grooved.”
✅ Fill-up check: Regularly check inflation pressure using a reliable gauge.
✅ Cold is cool: Only check tyre pressure when the tyres are cold to get accurate readings.
✅ Pressure perfect: Inflate tyres to the recommended pressure and adjust for aftermarket rims if necessary.
✅ Surface scan: Inspect tyres for sharp objects, cuts, bulges, or bruises that may indicate potential blowouts.
✅ Wary of wear: Monitor tyre wear patterns to identify issues with inflation, steering, suspension, or alignment.
✅ Eye on trends: Stay vigilant for unusual trends in tyre pressure that may indicate slow punctures.
✅ Tread carefully: Ensure tyres have adequate tread depth and replace worn tyres promptly.
✅ Cap it: Protect valves from leaks by ensuring they have valve caps.
✅ Tyre retirement: Regularly check and replace tyres older than 5 years.
In the event of A Burst Tyre:
👉🏼 Stay calm
👉🏼 Keep both hands on the steering wheel
👉🏼 Avoid sudden movements
👉🏼 Decelerate gently
👉🏼 Pull over to a safe spot away from traffic while switching on your hazard lights
Additionally, consider investing in something like Tyre & Rim Guard. This cost-effective solution allows you to claim for accidental damage to your vehicle’s tyres and rims, providing an added layer of protection.
Click here to INSTANTLY compare quotes for Tyre & Rim Guard & get the best deal 🏆 👏🏻
NEVER compromise on your safety ☝🏼
