With so many holidays and long weekends, many people take to the roads during holidays to visit family, return home or take a short break. The roads are often busy during these times, and from the recent Easter break to the long weekends still to come, many drivers will continue spending more time behind the wheel.
But with more travel comes a shared concern, road safety. Many drivers know the feeling of hitting a pothole, driving on a rough road or worrying about getting a puncture far from help. In some cases, tyres can even burst suddenly, especially during long-distance trips.
The recent Easter period is a good example, with many people travelling long distances using both highways and gravel roads to reach their destinations. Road conditions are not always ideal. Potholes, uneven surfaces and loose stones can damage tyres, especially when vehicles are fully loaded for long trips. Driving over long distances also increases pressure and heat, and if tyres are worn or underinflated, the risk of a sudden tyre burst increases. As the only part of the vehicle that touches the road, tyres play a key role in how a car brakes, turns and stays in control, and these kinds of journeys can be tough on the tyres.
Amaury Vadon, Vice President for Sales in Africa, India & the Middle East and Commercial Director Sub-Saharan Africa at Michelin, says regular tyre checks are an important part of responsible driving. “Before a trip, many motorists focus on planning their route and packing for the journey, but tyres are often overlooked,” he says. “Taking a few minutes to check tyre pressure and tread depth before travelling can help improve safety for drivers, passengers and other road users.”
Simple checks before you travel can help prevent many common tyre problems. Based on its tyre safety guidance, Michelin encourages drivers to make a few simple checks part of their routine before any journey.
Here are some simple safety checks drivers can follow:
- Check tyre wear and condition – Ensure tyres are not unevenly worn or too pronounced, as this can affect grip and safety.
- Check tyre pressure – Ensure all four tyres and the spare are correctly inflated before travelling.
- Check your vehicle – In addition to tyres, check engine oil, brake fluid, brake pads, coolant levels, lights and windscreen wipers to ensure everything is in good working condition.
- Ensure passenger safety – All passengers must wear seatbelts and should not obstruct the driver’s view. Ensure children are secured in approved child seats.
- Drive responsibly – Ensure the driver is well-rested, avoid alcohol before and during the trip, and take regular breaks to prevent fatigue.
For a detailed road-trip checklist and tips, visit the Michelin “Tips and advice” website.
Not all tyres are built the same. Strong, durable tyres can handle rough roads better and last longer, even under pressure from long-distance travel. Holidays will always bring people together, and travel will always be part of that. While road conditions may not always be in your control, taking care of your tyres can help you stay safe on every