TyreSafe urges UK motorists to be safe this summer

As the summer holiday season approaches, one charity is asking Britain's motorists to stay safe on the roads by ensuring their tyres are up to the job on a long journey.

TyreSafe believes that with the combination of the once-in-a-lifetime chance to see some Olympic events in the UK and wider budget constraints means that many will forgo the chance to jet off abroad and instead look to their car and the British countryside to provide some holiday fun this year.

But just like with any other holiday, a stay in the UK should have an accompanying checklist.

The group's chairman Stuart Jackson said: "We'd suggest that they put tyre checks at the top of the list so they can enjoy their holiday and arrive safely at their destination, whether it’s just for a day trip or further afield for a longer stay."

Last year, tyres were the most common cause of roadside breakdown, with the AA dealing with more than 57,000 incidents in the summer alone.

As well as staycationing this year, families looking to save money could try car leasing.

Not only will this reduce costs when it comes to acquiring a new vehicle, but it could help to ensure that motorists are behind the wheels of safer, better maintained cars.

The condition of a new car's tyres is likely to be better than an older model's, but there are still tests that need to be made.

"Just a few minutes spent inspecting the vehicle's tyres, including any spares, can save a lot of time and hassle later on if there is a tyre-related incident," stated Mr Jackson.

TyreSafe said the acronym ACT would help drivers remember that they need to check the air pressure, condition and tread of their car's rubber before they set off on their holiday.