As Tyre Safety Month returns, road safety charity GEM Motoring Assist is urging drivers to take a few minutes each month to check their tyres.

It is a small task that could make a life-saving difference.

Educating learners and new drivers about tyre safety and making regular checks a habit could have a significant impact on road safety for all.

Flat out

With almost 40% of UK vehicles estimated to be running on illegal or dangerously worn tyres, and more than two million MOT failures each year linked to tyre defects, the need for vigilance has never been greater.

“Tyres are the only part of a vehicle that actually touch the road,” said James Luckhurst, GEM’s Head of Road Safety.

“Each one provides just a palm-sized patch of grip — yet that small area is responsible for acceleration, braking, and steering. When tyres are worn or damaged, safety is compromised.”

Luckhurst praised Tyre Safety Month for giving motorists practical tools and reminders to take tyre care seriously. “Sadly, tyres can’t repair themselves,” he added. “That’s why this campaign is so important — it equips drivers with the simple knowledge needed to prevent needless crashes.”

Dangerous neglect

According to the latest figures, 39.5% of vehicles on UK roads are fitted with tyres that are below the legal limit or dangerously close to it.

In addition, more than half of all car tyres are believed to be under-inflated by at least 4 psi, while three-quarters of tyre defects in fatal crashes are caused by poor maintenance.

When tyres are neglected — whether under-inflated, over-worn, or damaged — the results can be catastrophic.

Under-inflated tyres overheat more easily, wear unevenly, reduce fuel efficiency, and can dramatically increase stopping distances.

Meanwhile, tyres with a tread depth below the legal minimum of 1.6mm struggle to disperse water on wet roads, leading to a heightened risk of aquaplaning.

Small checks, big difference

Recognising that many motorists struggle to find time for car maintenance, GEM’s advice for Tyre Safety Month focuses on quick, practical steps:

  • Check tyre pressures monthly, using a reliable gauge or a petrol station airline.

  • Consult your car manual or the label inside the fuel flap or door frame for the correct pressure levels — and check tyres when cold, ideally before driving.

  • Keep a small tyre check kit in your glove box, including a pressure gauge, a 20p coin (for tread depth checks), and a note of your tyre size and pressures.

  • Visually inspect tyres for damage such as cuts, cracks, or bulges.

  • Don’t forget the spare — a flat spare tyre is no help in an emergency.

Luckhurst added that these simple habits take just a few minutes but can prevent collisions, breakdowns, and costly repairs.

“Tyre safety isn’t just about protecting yourself — it’s about protecting everyone you share the road with,” he said.

Seasonal savings

As colder, wetter weather approaches, tyre performance becomes even more crucial.

Reduced daylight, slippery leaves, and wet surfaces all add to the risk of losing control if tyres are not in good condition.

“Autumn is the perfect time to build better habits,” said Luckhurst.

“Tyre Safety Month is a great reminder that just a small investment of time can help ensure you, your passengers, and other road users stay safe.”

GEM encourages every driver to make tyre checks a regular part of their safety routine — not just during Tyre Safety Month, but all year round.

“A few minutes’ attention,” Luckhurst concluded, “is a small price to pay for peace of mind on every journey.”