Young drivers have been urged to make "life-saving" checks on specific components of their vehicles to avoid failing their MOT inspection.
It comes after a recent report highlighted serious safety concerns for newly qualified motorists who were neglecting basic vehicle maintenance.
The research showed a worrying trend of young drivers failing to perform simple tyre inspections that could prevent accidents and MOT failures.
With the summer approaching and more UK road trips being planned, experts have now warned that this oversight could have potentially fatal consequences on UK roads.
Do you have a story you'd like to share? Get in touch by emailingmotoring@gbnews.uk
Drivers can prevent failing their MOT by looking after their tyres
GETTY/PA
The survey revealed that 63 per cent of motorists delay purchasing new tyres until their vehicle fails its MOT, while 23 per cent never consider the dangers of driving on unroadworthy rubber.
Even more concerning is that 11 per cent of drivers only replace tyres once they are completely bald and illegal, putting themselves and others at serious risk.
These findings come alongside Government data showing 2.15 million annual MOT failures due to tyre defects.
Financial pressures have also been influencing driver behaviour, with 35 per cent of car owners admitting they delay changing their tyres because they cannot afford replacements, highlighting how cost-of-living pressures are impacting road safety.
The economic cost of tyre-related incidents over the past five years is estimated at £416million, according to data cited by Bridgestone.
Bridgestone's UK Senior Marketing Manager, Helen Roe, said: "Tyres are the only contact points between a vehicle and the road, yet they remain one of the most neglected safety components.
"At Bridgestone, we want to continue to highlight that regular tyre checks and good maintenance habits are key to preventing accidents. Life is a journey, let's make it a safe one."
Bridgestone has urged drivers, particularly young motorists, to follow three simple steps to ensure tyre safety, which includes regularly checking tyre pressures and tread depth at least once a month and before long journeys.
Secondly, drivers should check that the tread depth limit of 1.6mm is fitted in all tyres, and if in doubt, ask the experts.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:
Young drivers have been found to be neglecting their tyre maintenance
GETTY"We want to make it easier for drivers to make the right safety decisions," Helen added. "Tyres play a vital role in keeping vehicles safe on the road, yet they are often overlooked."
The survey also revealed strong public support for enhanced road safety measures specifically targeting new drivers who pose more risks on UK roads.
According to Bridgestone's research, 57 per cent of motorists back the introduction of a Graduated Driving Licence, which would provide a structured, step-by-step approach to help newly qualified drivers gain experience safely.
An overwhelming 70 per cent believe tyre safety should be taught in the classroom before learning to drive.
Half of respondents said that a "recently passed" sign should be displayed for up to 12 months after passing, while another 50 per cent support a one-passenger limit for new drivers during their first year.
Driving with faulty tyres can fail their MOT
GETTYAdditionally, 39 per cent advocated that new drivers should take a refresher course after passing their test.
"Our findings reinforce the importance of road and tyre safety education, particularly amongst young drivers who might be at greater risk on roads in the initial period of passing their driving test," Roe added.
Most Read
