Drivers warned putting off this repair is leading to killer road crashes

Safety experts call for more attention towards dangers of putting off repairs

Drivers have been warned a common defect is leading to more crashes causing serious injuries and deaths. Roads bosses have been left alarmed by new figures showing a surge in serious smashes where tyre defects have been a contributory factor.

It's a particular problem as tyre wear is among issues drivers are most likely to put off because of worries over costs and a belief they can leave it without any consequences. There have also been reports the cost of living crisis has resulted in more drivers putting off repairs.

But a sudden blowout or lack of grip at the crucial moment could spark disaster. It has prompted reminders to motorists to regularly check the condition of their tyres and to get them replaced when suggested by a garage and not put it off.

READ MORE: £200 cost of living payments to enter bank accounts in October

Don't miss the biggest and breaking stories by signing up to the BirminghamLive newsletter here

Latest figures show there was a 29% rise in KSI (killed or seriously injured) incidents compared to 2022 - going from 147 to 190. This was the highest number of casualties due to tyre defects since 2018.

This is similar to the number of mobile phone-related crashes, and safety experts say the condition of tyres needs to be taken more seriously. Stuart Lovatt, chair of TyreSafe, said: “These figures are a stark reminder that we cannot afford to be complacent when it comes to tyre safety.

"The increase in KSI casualties is deeply troubling and demonstrates that current efforts in both supporting road users to check their tyres, but also that reporting measures are not sufficient to reflect the scale of the issue, which we know from our own research is vast. We must act now to prevent further tragedies on our roads.

“The increase in tyre-related KSI’s is a call to action to raise the level of debate and understanding of the impact of dangerous and unroadworthy tyres. With the cost of living crisis continuing to hit the nations pockets hard TyreSafe will continue to campaign to see drivers and riders understand how they can reduce their risks of an incident."