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Bridgestone Issues Safety Plea 

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Written by Tim Barnes-Clay

As families across the UK prepare for their summer holidays, Bridgestone is highlighting the crucial importance of tyre safety, as many motorists continue to overlook tyre maintenance.

A recent survey of 2,000 UK drivers revealed that 63% wait until their vehicle fails its MOT before purchasing new tyres, while 23% never consider the risks associated with worn tyres. Alarmingly, 11% only replace tyres when they are completely bald. This general lack of awareness is particularly concerning, as road usage is expected to increase during the holiday period.

Helen Roe, Bridgestone’s UK Senior Marketing Manager, urged motorists to carry out simple tyre checks before travelling, stating, “Tyres are the only part of the vehicle that comes into contact with the road, and worn or underinflated tyres can significantly increase the risk of accidents. Regular checks can truly save lives.”

Government statistics indicate that over 2.15 million MOT failures each year are linked to tyre defects, with tyre-related incidents costing an estimated £416 million over the past five years. The survey also highlighted that 35% of motorists delay replacing their tyres due to financial concerns, emphasising how cost pressures influence safety decisions.

In response, Bridgestone has launched the ‘Be a Bridgestone Road Safety Hero’ campaign, offering more than 4,500 free tyre inspections across the UK, to empower drivers to prioritise tyre maintenance.

With the summer holidays fast approaching, Bridgestone suggests motorists follow three key steps for tyre safety:

  1. Inspect Regularly: Check tyre pressures and tread depth at least once a month and before embarking on long journeys.
  2. Know the Law: The legal minimum tread depth is 1.6mm, but it’s advisable to replace tyres well before reaching this limit.
  3. Ask the Experts: If in doubt, seek advice or a free inspection from a qualified technician.

For more information on tyre safety and how to become a Road Safety Hero, visit: https://promotion.bridgestone.co.uk/bridgestone-tyre-care-guide/.

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