In the bustling life of a motorist, the health of our cars often slips to the back of our minds. Bridgestone’s latest survey reveals a concerning trend among UK drivers, highlighting a significant oversight in vehicle maintenance, especially when it comes to tyres. This calls for an urgent shift in our approach to car care, moving beyond mere aesthetics or performance to prioritise safety.
The Startling Reality of Tyre Neglect
Bridgestone’s findings are a wake-up call for motorists across the UK. With 73% of drivers neglecting their tyre checks, the risk on the roads increases, not just for the individual drivers but for everyone. Tyres, being the only point of contact between the vehicle and the road, demand regular inspections to ensure they’re fit for purpose. Yet, a shocking 27% of motorists admit to driving on tyres that breach legal safety standards, with 8% pushing their luck until the tyres are completely worn out.
Common Grievances: More Than Just Pet Peeves
Beyond the critical issue of tyre safety, Bridgestone’s survey also uncovers the small yet significant annoyances that can sour the driving experience among partners. Whether it’s not returning the seat to its original position, blasting music too loudly, altering the car’s temperature settings, or failing to top up the fuel tank, these grievances speak volumes about our relationship with our vehicles and those we share them with.
Bridging the Gap: Education and Action
Acknowledging the deep emotional and practical value cars hold in our lives, Andrea Manenti, Bridgestone’s North Region Vice President, calls for a renewed commitment to vehicle care. The focus is particularly sharp on tyre maintenance—an area too often overlooked but essential for safe driving. The correlation between neglected tyres and road incidents, including casualties and the prevalence of illegal tyres on UK roads, underscores the urgency of this issue.
Become a Road Safety Hero
Bridgestone’s initiative, “Become a Bridgestone Road Safety Hero,” aims to empower motorists with the knowledge and tools necessary for effective tyre care. By adopting simple practices, such as regular tyre checks and maintenance, and encouraging others to do the same, we can collectively enhance road safety. This initiative is a part of Bridgestone’s broader mission to contribute positively to society and the environment, as encapsulated in its E8 Commitment.
A Call to Action for UK Motorists
The findings from Bridgestone’s research serve as a critical reminder of the importance of tyre maintenance in ensuring road safety. As motorists, we have a responsibility not only to ourselves but to everyone else on the road to maintain our vehicles properly. This Valentine’s Day, let’s commit to showing our cars the care they deserve, starting with the basics of tyre safety.
For practical advice on tyre maintenance and to become a part of the solution, visit Bridgestone Tyre Care Guide. Together, we can drive towards a safer future on the roads.
Through awareness, education, and action, we can transform the way we think about and care for our vehicles, ensuring that tyre safety becomes a non-negotiable part of our driving routine.
