As universities prepare to welcome back students, a reminder is being issued for the 316,850 UK 18-year-olds who have applied for higher education to prioritise vehicle safety before setting off on their journeys.
With the number of young people heading to campuses slightly increasing from last year, ensuring road safety has never been more critical.
Three-in-five young drivers admit they never check their tyres, a concerning statistic given that approximately six million tyres with illegal tread are currently on UK roads, according to TyreSafe’s 2023 Tread Depth Survey. The risks associated with tyre neglect are significant, as illegal or poorly maintained tyres account for over a fifth of all breakdowns on the UK’s strategic road network.
Students and their families can no longer rely on reaching for a spare, in the event of a tyre incident, with the RAC reporting that only 3% of new cars sold come equipped with a spare wheel. For those driving an older vehicle, TyreSafe urges drivers to check they have a spare tyre, and whether it is serviceable.
In the event that the vehicle does not have a spare tyre, drivers should ensure they know whether their car has run-flat tyres or a tyre repair kit (often a sealant and compressor).
TyreSafe’s ‘Back to University Car Checklist’, provides road users with an easy to follow safety guide:
- Ensure all tyres are in good condition, free from damage, and have plenty of tread – the legal minimum is a depth of at least 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre.
- Adjust tyre pressures according to the vehicle’s load to prevent blowouts and improve fuel efficiency.
- Check that engine oil levels are sufficient, windscreen wash is topped up, and other fluids are at appropriate levels.
- Ensure the rear window is clear of obstructions to maintain full visibility
- Set phones to driving/in-car mode to avoid distractions and stay focused on the road.
- Observe speed limits, including variable speed limits on motorways, and adjust driving according to road conditions.
For more information on tyre safety and other driving tips, visit tyresafe.org.
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