Understanding Tyre Safety: Key Findings from AA and TyreSafe Research
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In today’s fast-paced world, UK drivers often overlook essential vehicle safety checks, including tyre maintenance. A joint study conducted by The AA and TyreSafe has shed light on these critical gaps in awareness and practices surrounding tyre safety.
The Research Overview
Throughout May and July 2025, over 22,000 UK drivers participated in surveys that unveiled significant discrepancies between their perceived knowledge of tyre safety and the actual legal requirements they must adhere to. While many understand the dangers of worn tyres, their comprehension of legal consequences and proper maintenance practices is alarmingly low.
Key Findings
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Lack of Awareness on Legal Penalties
- A staggering 61% of drivers are unaware that the maximum fine for driving on illegal tyres is £2,500 per tyre. Moreover, 45% do not recognize that each illegal tyre could result in three penalty points. Simple arithmetic shows that two illegal tyres can lead to six points, possibly culminating in a driving ban.
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Confusion Over Responsibility
- Only 65% of respondents correctly identified the driver as the one legally responsible for ensuring tyres are safe and compliant. Surprisingly, 34% mistakenly believed that the car owner held this responsibility.
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Knowledge of Tread Depth Levels
- A concerning 57% of drivers knew the minimum legal tread depth for cars is 1.6mm, while 28% cited incorrect depths, and 15% admitted to not knowing the requirement.
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Inconsistent Checking Habits
- While 96% of drivers felt confident in their ability to check tyre pressure, only 30% had performed a check in the past week. Further, merely 19% checked their tyre tread depth weekly, with 15% doing so less often than bi-annually.
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Demographic Disparities
- The research revealed that men generally displayed better knowledge and more consistent checking habits than women. For instance, 71% of men knew the driver is responsible, in contrast to only 55% of women. Additionally, older drivers (55+) demonstrated superior understanding compared to their younger counterparts (18-24).
Expert Insights on Tyre Safety
Greg Carter, AA Technical Specialist, commented, “These findings reveal a disheartening reality: while drivers comprehend the dangers of worn tyres on some level, many are unaware of the serious legal and financial repercussions they face for non-compliance. This gap poses risks not only to their safety but also to the safety of others on the road.”
Stuart Lovatt, Chair of TyreSafe, emphasized, “Our collaboration with The AA on this crucial research highlights significant knowledge gaps that the industry must address. Since tyres are the sole contact points between vehicles and the road, their condition is imperative for safe driving. A lack of understanding regarding maintenance expectations and associated penalties underscores the urgent need for increased public education.”
Recommendations for Drivers
To enhance road safety, both The AA and TyreSafe urge drivers to conduct regular tyre checks as part of their routine vehicle maintenance. Low tyre pressure can adversely affect handling and fuel economy, while inadequate tread depth diminishes grip—particularly in wet conditions.
Carter added, “Checking your tyre pressure and tread depth should become as habitual as checking your fuel gauge. The consequences of neglecting these checks—both safety-related and financial—are too significant to ignore. We particularly call for focused campaigns aimed at educating younger drivers and women to help bridge these knowledge disparities.”
Conclusion
The research conducted by The AA and TyreSafe emphasizes the importance of regular tyre maintenance. Drivers should check their tyre pressure and tread depth at least once a month and before embarking on long journeys. By prioritizing these fundamental checks, drivers can avoid serious incidents and substantial legal penalties, leading to safer roads for everyone.
By improving awareness and fostering better maintenance habits, we can significantly reduce the risks associated with tyre neglect. For more information on how to maintain your tyres, please visit the official websites of The AA and TyreSafe.
