Government highlights ’cause for concern’ for drivers this summer amid safety risk

Halfords demonstrate how to check and inflate your car tyres Drivers have been warned new figures are a ’cause for concern’ with motorists likely at risk of breakdowns while travelling this summer. New statistics from National Highways show a staggering number of tyre breakdowns in recent weeks which could be a major blow to road users. One in seven vehicle breakdowns on England’s major A roads and motorways were tyre-related on the first weekend of the summer. Officers reported a staggering 756 breakdowns on July 22 and 23 with 124 related to tyre problems. Figures also detail a massive 12,000 tyre-related breakdowns across England’s motorway and A-roads between June and August last year. READ MORE Drivers warned to make sure children are wearing seatbelts during holidays Tyre-related breakdowns are high this summer The findings have left officials stunned with chiefs issuing a major plea to road users looking to head away. Traffic is expected to remain high for much of the summer with school holidays now in full flow and staycation holidays booked. National Highways head of road safety, Jeremy Philips, has urged motorists to check their compounds before setting off to avoid being caught out. He explained: ‘These figures are a real cause for concern. ‘Our advice for motorists is to make sure the tyres are correctly inflated according to the load and ensure there is plenty of tread on them. ‘We’d say good tyre tread is an important safety factor for any journey but especially so in changeable weather conditions such as heavy and sudden downpours which we’ve seen over recent weeks. ‘It’s also important to check the windscreen wipers work properly and all your lights are functioning before heading off.’ The North-West region was one of the most prominent parts of the country for tyre-related issues. The region saw a massive 2,195 incidents with the West Midlands close behind with 1,974 reports. The RAC has warned longer summer journeys can ‘soon highlight any lurking issues with tyres’. SUBSCRIBE Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info Trending Drivers are urged to check their tyres before setting off