Millions of motorists at risk this Bank Holiday

Research by Micheldever Tyres Services, UK independent tyre dealer network, has shown that over 30 percent of cars coming into the company’s flagship outlet in Hampshire have at least one illegal tyre – up from 19 percent one year ago. The worrying research also shows that over 80 percent of cars have badly worn tyres, with a tread depth below 2mm, and in need of urgent replacement.

As signs of economic recovery begin to appear, it is still clear however that consumers are putting off the replacement of dangerous tyres with a tread depth below the legal minimum of 1.6mm in an attempt to save money. Paul Fox, Chief Executive of Micheldever Tyres Services, commented: “The reality is that delaying the replacement of badly worn tyres is a false economy that places drivers, their passengers and other road users at serious risk.”

With over 31 million cars registered in the UK, the figure suggests that up to 9.5 million motorists could be flouting the law by driving on unsafe tyres. Defective, badly worn and under inflated tyres will certainly compromise safe stopping distances; they will also use more fuel and contribute to an increase in emissions.

All 49 Micheldever/Protyre outlets will offer motorists a free tyre safety check which will include tread depth, tyre pressures, uneven wear due to misalignment, general condition and tyre age. Motorists do not have to make an appointment – just call into a company outlet and ask for the free safety check. Full details of the location of all company locations can be found on protyre.co.uk.