A shocking new study has revealed an alarming lack of tyre safety knowledge, indicating that many motorists are putting lives at risk.
Among the study’s key findings, released as part of Tyre Safety Month, was that fewer than a fifth (19 per cent) of those surveyed check their tread depth every month, which is the recommended frequency.
Just as worrying in the research commissioned by Anyline, a global leader in AI-powered mobile data capture and insights, and TyreSafe, is that over a third of drivers rely on a simple and subjective visual inspection of their tyres rather than using a proper gauge, which only 29 per cent of drivers said they did.
Additionally, only 36 per cent knew the correct potential licence penalty for insufficient tread depth (3 points on their licence for each illegal tyre).
However, on a positive note, more than half (54 per cent) would check their tyres more frequently if they had a mobile app which could measure tread depth, an area which Anyline is spearheading with its AI-powered scanning technology.
Lukas Kinigadner, CEO and co-founder at Anyline said: “Defective and worn tyres contribute to too many unnecessary injuries and deaths.
“We believe many of those casualties could be avoided if drivers knew more about their tyres and had the right tools and technology to make informed decisions.
“That’s why it was important for Anyline to partner with TyreSafe on this project to better understand what drivers know about tyre maintenance and where education and technology can be applied to make our roads safer.”
The issue of tyre safety was recently highlighted in the Department for Transport’s latest annual report, “Reported Road Casualties Great Britain” for 2023. The report revealed a 29 percent year-on-year increase in killed or seriously injured (KSI) casualties linked to tyre-related incidents.
Additionally, the research found that misconceptions about fines persist, with many individuals believing the penalty for tyre-related offences is lower than the actual maximum fine of £2,500.
Stuart Lovatt, Chair of TyreSafe, stated: “This new research provides crucial insights into UK drivers’ understanding and practices regarding tyre safety. It is an essential resource for those aiming to enhance road safety by addressing the gaps in tyre maintenance practices among UK drivers, which clearly require more attention.”
With the help of computer vision and AI-enabled technology, Anyline’s mobile scanning solutions enable tyre service centres, manufacturers, distributors, and retailers to quickly capture tyre, automotive, and customer information from any mobile device. This technology helps customers make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance.
- For more information, visit www.anyline.com and https://www.tyresafe.org/campaigns/tyre-safety-month/.
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