National Highways is calling on motorists to check their tyres before long journeys as part of its new autumn safety campaign.

More than half (55%) of drivers don’t always check their tyres before a long trip

Data from its survey of UK drivers reveals more than half (55%) do not always examine their tyre tread before embarking on a long trip.

Meanwhile, more than a fifth (21%) of those who take long journeys and have broken down on the motorway think their breakdown could have been avoided if they had carried out proper tyre checks before setting off.

The main reason given by drivers for not checking tyre tread ahead of a long journey is forgetfulness (29%) and 24% assume they do not need to check because it’s covered in their annual MOT or service.

But 16% of UK drivers say they don’t feel confident checking their own wheels, and one in 10 (9%) say they don’t have time to check.

Last year, there were more than 51,500 tyre-related breakdowns on England’s motorways and major A-roads, up 14% on 2022. During October last year there were 4,053 tyre-related breakdowns, averaging around 131 incidents per day.

This autumn, National Highways has joined forces with Kwik Fit to encourage drivers to check both the tread and pressure of their tyres to avoid unnecessary breakdowns and reduce the risk of collisions.

Tyre safety tips: 

• Check your tyre tread: Ensure the tread depth meets the legal minimum of 1.6mm. If in doubt, use the ‘20p test’ – place a 20p coin into the tread; if the outer band of the coin is visible, your tyres may be unsafe. Failure to comply can result in £2,500 fine and up to three points on your license for each tyre below the limit.

• Check your tyre pressure: Refer to your vehicle handbook for the correct pressure and check tyres when they are cold for accurate results.

• Inspect for damage: Regularly look for cuts, bulges, or objects embedded in your tyres.

• Tyre Check: Kwik Fit offers free no-obligation tyre checks for those concerned about the condition of their tyres.

As the weather changes, drivers are also reminded to have a safe TRIP: (top-up, rest, inspect and prepare). The acronym is a checklist:

Top-up – fuel, water and oil

Rest – every two hours

Inspect – tyres and lights

Prepare – plan your journey ahead and check the traffic and weather forecasts

Matt Staton, head of national road user safety at National Highways, said: “Breakdowns caused by tyre issues are not only inconvenient but can also be dangerous for both the driver and other road users. We’re urging drivers to take a few minutes to check their tyre tread and pressure before setting off. It’s a small step that can make a big difference to your safety on the roads.”