Many studies have been undertaken to gain insight into the cause and influence tyre condition has on handling that can ultimately lead to vehicle crashes, and all too often does. According to a report by car insurer Youi, most accidents (23%) tend to be rear end crashes, with around 11% being attributed to loss of control.
The recently conducted inaugural Kumho National Tyre Health Survey found that 38% of motorists drive with tyres in such poor conditions they need replacing, with 9% of tyres found to be in unroadworthy condition.
The survey was conducted across major cities in five states, with the figures only differing slightly between locations and vehicle types. Shockingly, around 33% of all vehicles were found with unevenly worn tyres and to have wheel alignment issues. A further 28% of tyres were found to be in half worn condition, and only 11% were in an ideal state.
With tyre condition having direct influence on road handling and hence being attributed to over 10% of road accidents (small, major and fatal), the importance of maintaining good tyre pressure, regular checking of tread condition, and timely replacement of worn tyres, can not be stressed enough.
David Basha, National Marketing Manager for Kumho Tyres said, “Most people tend to underestimate the importance of the condition of their tyres when it comes to road handling. And, while we have all been taught to check them before going on a long road trip, it’s the day-to-day driving where drivers don’t pay enough attention to their tyres and when most accidents happen.”
The National Tyre Health Survey was initiated by Kumho Tyre with an aim to assess the tyre condition Australian motorists drive with and to raise awareness of the risk poor tyres pose. The survey found that a staggering 38% of all tyres need to be replaced, 33% of vehicles have wheel alignment issues, and tyre pressure was in 45% of cases less than ideal. Yet, most of these risks are easily minimized with regular check-ups and timely replacement.
“The rule of thumb is to check your tyre pressure every 2 – 3 times you visit the fuel station, have regular safety checks done by a tyre professional, and have your wheel alignment set at least twice a year,” Basha said.
In an aim to curb the number of road accidents, many of which could perhaps be prevented or at least be minimized if tyres were kept in better condition, Kumho Tyre across their nation-wide network of dealers are offering free drop-in tyre safety check-ups to all motorists.
“We understand that most drivers are either too busy or unsure as to the right pressure or tread required to drive safely. So, next time you pass a tyre dealership, drop in for a safety check,” he said.
Hundreds of tyres across passenger cars, utes, 4WD’s and SUV’s were assessed under the Kumho National Tyre Health Survey. And, while the numbers are surprisingly high when it comes to uneven wear, poor tyre pressure and tread depth, the good news is that most motorists actually appreciate the peace of mind from knowing they drive safer when their tyres are kept in a good condition.
The survey found only 11% of tyres in ideal conditions, and just under a third at 50% wear, making those that are less than satisfactory a staggeringly high number. The question that remains is, which percentage do you belong to? For you and your family’s safety, get your tyres checked regularly.
For more information on the Kumho National Tyre Health Survey, or to find your closest Kumho dealer for your tyre health check, log onto www.kumho.com.au