Michelin supports RSA campaign

April 07, 2016
Michelin supports RSA campaign
Share:

Tyre manufacturer Michelin is supporting the Road Safety Authority (RSA) and its efforts to raise public awareness of the importance of tyre safety.


In an analysis by RSA of fatal road accidents occurring in Ireland between 2008 and 2012 just published, defective tyres were identified as the largest single ‘vehicle factor’ involved.

As part of a drive to urge motorists to be extra diligent in ensuring their tyres are properly inflated and maintained, Michelin has been conducting studies at centres throughout the UK and Ireland since 2007 as part of their free Fill-Up-With-Air tyre check programme – which included events held in Galway, Naas, Dungarvan and Ballymena.

Having inspected tens of thousands of cars, Michelin found that, on average, 57% of those checked had underinflated tyres, of which 33% were ‘dangerously’ or ‘very dangerously’ under-inflated. In addition, some 5% had a punctured tyre and 1% had tread depths below the legal minimum.

Pressures between 8psi and 14psi below the manufacturer's recommendation are classified as 'dangerous' by Michelin, while tyres more than 14psi below the recommended level fall into the 'very dangerous' category. 

In calling for an industry-wide approach to highlight the importance of proper tyre maintenance, Phil Baldock, Michelin Communications Manager for the UK and Ireland, said: “Under-inflated tyres are dangerous – Vehicle handling and braking distances are harmed, and the risk of losing grip, aquaplaning, punctures and blow-outs increases significantly. Under-inflated tyres also wear out quicker and use more fuel, meaning not only safety but running costs are affected”.

Michelin supports RSA campaign
PREVIOUS ARTICLE
Mazda on the march
NEXT ARTICLE
Chad McQueen takes the road in a Mustang

More from AFTERMARKET

The Automechanika Birmingham Programme goes Live

The Automechanika Birmingham Programme goes Live

icon The official event programme f...
The EV charging revolution is coming – At least in China

The EV charging revolution is coming – At least in China

icon One of the big hurdles stoppin...
Introducing “Goldy” the Civic supercar slayer 

Introducing “Goldy” the Civic supercar slayer 

icon Everyone loves an underdog and...
Stay safe and secure with febi Door and Tailgate Locks

Stay safe and secure with febi Door and Tailgate Locks

icon Locks on vehicles perform a vi...
SEALEY launches new Tool Promotion 

SEALEY launches new Tool Promotion 

icon The latest Tool Promotion from...
Brembo braking - for the ultimate upgrade

Brembo braking - for the ultimate upgrade

icon Brembo has highlighted how off...

More from AUTOBIZ