UK motorists neglect tyre safety, research shows

Research from tyre manufacturers Continental and Bridgestone highlights significant safety concerns regarding motorist tyre maintenance in the UK. Findings indicate that many drivers, particularly those aged 18–24, frequently neglect essential checks. Approximately 35% of young drivers admit to knowingly driving with tyre issues such as low tread depth, under-inflation, or punctures.

Data shows that nearly half of UK motorists only inspect their tyres when an MOT is due, and 31% continue driving on worn tyres until they fail inspection. Bridgestone reported that 20% of drivers admit to purchasing potentially dangerous part-worn tyres. Furthermore, TyreSafe estimates that 6.1 million illegal or dangerously worn tyres are on UK roads at any given time.

The safety implications are reflected in official statistics; the Department for Transport reported that fatalities and serious injuries in collisions involving defective or underinflated tyres rose from 169 in 2024 to 201 in 2025. Financial constraints also play a role, with 30% of young drivers stating they have postponed tyre replacements due to cost.