Van owners and drivers get tyre safety warning

TyreSafe, the leading UK tyre safety organisation is urging van owners and drivers to check their tyres regularly in a bid to improve road safety.

TyreSafe says that light commercial vehicles (LCVs) lead a hard life, carrying loads and doing multiple drops, often in tough working environments such as construction sites. Economic pressure on businesses during the recession has also led to many older vehicles not being replaced. As a critical vehicle component, it’s important to carry out regular checks on vans of all ages to make sure their tyres are still safe and legal, TyreSafe says.
With margins for businesses tighter than ever and fuel and other costs rising, the impact of a tyre-related problem can be serious in terms of vehicle downtime, missed appointments and repair costs. Therefore regular checks on your vehicle’s tyres can help save time and money in both the short and long term

Vans and LCV’s are subject to the same tyre law as cars so they must have a minimum of 1.6mm of tread across the central three quarters of the tyre around its entire circumference. Tyres must also be well maintained in order to keep the vehicle stable as it travels around corners; to help it accelerate and brake effectively; and to work in harmony with the vehicle’s main suspension system to carry loads safely.
Basic checks such as making sure tyres are correctly inflated can make all the difference, as the pressurised air inside the tyre helps to support the weight of the vehicle and its load. Tyre tread depths are vital for ensuring vehicle safety and vans are particularly vulnerable as they can be heavier than normal cars, and often carry loads. The extra weight carried by a van also increases its stopping distance, making it even more important that tread depths meet safe and legal standards.
Vans, even car derived vans, usually require specific tyres which are designed to cope with the payload of the vehicle. Car tyres are often not suitable for vans. If in doubt, speak to a local tyre retailer for specific advice on the most appropriate tyre your needs and load requirements.

Related Articles

Card image cap

Dangerous tyres responsible for more than 40% of vehicle defect related deaths

Figures released by the Department for Transport (DfT) in the UK have highlighted the need for drivers to check their tyres regularly after more than 40 per cent of vehicle defect-related deaths in th...

Posted 9 years ago

Card image cap

PCL offers motorists tyre advice

It’s getting to that time of year when holidaymakers who enjoy self-drive breaks start to consider where to go and when. Whether you’re opting for a jaunt to the west of Ireland or further afie...

Posted 9 years ago

Card image cap

Anti-dumping – EC to investigate Chinese tyre imports to Europe

The European Commission has issued notice that it will initiate an anti-dumping proceeding focusing on imports of truck and bus tyres originating in the People’s Republic of China. The Commission is...

Posted 6 years ago


Tags

Road Safety, Tyre Safe