Dunlop

Goodyear survey reveals European motorists lack tyre knowledge

A study of European motorists has revealed that while the majority of road users are aware of the important role tyres play in road safety, many remain in the dark when it comes to tyre purchasing and maintenance.

Conducted by Goodyear, the survey interviewed a total of 3,500 people from the United Kingdom, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Poland and Spain.

Respondents identified fitting correct tyres to a vehicle as the second most important factor in road safety, second only to not drinking and driving.

Yet Goodyear correctly points out that merely stating that tyres are important does not necessarily mean drivers have crucial knowledge about tyres, or that they put this knowledge into practice. The survey results indicate that many European motorists underestimate the link between tyre choice and road safety:
- One in three respondents admitting they know “little or nothing” about how tyres influence their vehicles stopping distance;
- 42 per cent knowing “little or nothing” about the role that tyres play in terms of grip.
- 73 per cent said they know the appropriate tyre pressure for different driving conditions, but almost half did not know that the best time to check tyre pressure is when the tyres are cold.
- More than one third admitted to continuing to drive as normal on worn tyres.

Tom Delforge, director of communications, EMEA, Goodyear Dunlop, said: “This survey on tyres and road safety reveals some of the worrying driving practices we all need to address to make our roads safer places.

“It also shows a number of road safety risks that can be addressed by promoting the right tyre choice, building more awareness and encouraging better maintenance.”

Tags: Road Safety, worn tyres