Van owners and drivers get tyre safety warning

TyreSafe, the leading UK tyre safety organisation is urging van owners and drivers to check their tyres regularly in a bid to improve road safety.

TyreSafe says that light commercial vehicles (LCVs) lead a hard life, carrying loads and doing multiple drops, often in tough working environments such as construction sites. Economic pressure on businesses during the recession has also led to many older vehicles not being replaced. As a critical vehicle component, it’s important to carry out regular checks on vans of all ages to make sure their tyres are still safe and legal, TyreSafe says.
With margins for businesses tighter than ever and fuel and other costs rising, the impact of a tyre-related problem can be serious in terms of vehicle downtime, missed appointments and repair costs. Therefore regular checks on your vehicle’s tyres can help save time and money in both the short and long term

Vans and LCV’s are subject to the same tyre law as cars so they must have a minimum of 1.6mm of tread across the central three quarters of the tyre around its entire circumference. Tyres must also be well maintained in order to keep the vehicle stable as it travels around corners; to help it accelerate and brake effectively; and to work in harmony with the vehicle’s main suspension system to carry loads safely.
Basic checks such as making sure tyres are correctly inflated can make all the difference, as the pressurised air inside the tyre helps to support the weight of the vehicle and its load. Tyre tread depths are vital for ensuring vehicle safety and vans are particularly vulnerable as they can be heavier than normal cars, and often carry loads. The extra weight carried by a van also increases its stopping distance, making it even more important that tread depths meet safe and legal standards.
Vans, even car derived vans, usually require specific tyres which are designed to cope with the payload of the vehicle. Car tyres are often not suitable for vans. If in doubt, speak to a local tyre retailer for specific advice on the most appropriate tyre your needs and load requirements.