South African motorists generally neglect the condition of their cars’ tyres. This is according to the Automobile Association (AA), who advise motorists not to drive with defective tyres that will endanger themselves and passengers. Such tyres include those that are worn-out and over- or under-inflated. So, read more about the following tyre safety tips that you can apply.1,2
Defective Tyres Cause Accidents
According to Arrive Alive, the most significant road safety campaign in South Africa, neglecting tyre safety has mainly contributed to thousands of accidents every year. According to research by the CSIR, about 20% of minibus accidents involved defective tyres.1
Depth of Tyre Tread Is Crucial
According to Regulation 212 of the National Road Traffic Act, a tyre tread must be at least 1 mm deep. If it’s less, you can face a fine, but even worse, a possible rejection of an accident claim due to the non-roadworthiness of your car. Some tyres have wear indicators, which inform you to replace the tyres when worn flat.2
A Quick Way to Check Tyre Tread Depth
Place a matchstick into a tyre tread, and if level with the tyre surface the tread is still acceptable. But if the match protrudes from the tyre surface, you’ll have to replace the tyre.2
When Last Did You Check Tyre Pressures?
You should check your car’s tyre pressures at least once a month, and especially before going on a long trip. Carefully observe the actual tyre pressure before adjusting it. If the pressure is too low, the tyre may have a slow leak. At the same time, inspect the tyre or its sidewalls for any cuts, cracks, bulges or sharp objects.1,2
Under-inflation and Over-inflation
Under-inflated or soft tyres significantly increase rolling resistance, which causes the car to work harder and use more fuel. Under-inflated tyres also build up much heat and can burst. Over-inflated or hard tyres cushion the car less, while sharp objects can penetrate such tyres more easily. There’s also less tyre surface touching the road, resulting in poorer road handling.1,2
Rotate Your Car’s Tyres
You should rotate tyres every 10,000 km, and, at the same time, have wheels balanced and aligned to ensure even wear.1,2
Rules When Replacing Tyres
Always replace tyres with the same size codes and according to the car manufacturer’s specifications. Use the same tyre brand, size, speed rating and tread pattern on each axle. Be careful with any imported tyres, which may be re-treaded and sold illegally. Always look out for the SABS approval symbol.1,2
Disclaimer
This article describes some tyre safety tips. 1,2
Confirm with your insurer your policy’s requirements concerning tyres and how they can affect your cover. If you need some help, don’t hesitate to contact us at PMD and enjoy our world-class client service. We can describe to you our affordable car insurance products with their unique benefits, such as fixed premiums* and reducing excess*. T’s and C’s apply.
It’s best to consult a certified financial advisor for professional advice before buying a financial services product.
Sources:
This article was prepared by Eric Sandmann in his personal capacity. The views and opinions expressed in this article are the author’s own. The views and opinions in the article should not be attributed to anyone but the author unless expressly stated. Nothing in this article should be relied upon as advice, this publication is presented for informational purposes only. No person should act or refrain from acting in reliance on any information found in this article, without first obtaining proper financial advice from the appropriate professional. The author makes no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, or completeness, of any information linked from, referred to, or contained in this article. The author reserves the right, to edit and change the content of this article.
Tyre Maintenance and Road Safety https://t.co/qIIbPuWXRa #ArriveAlive #RoadSafety #TyreSafety #TyreMaintenance pic.twitter.com/z20z8GaKIX
– Arrive Alive (@_ArriveAlive) November 30, 2022