TyreSafe, the UK’s only charity dedicated to raising awareness of tyre safety, is re-releasing its flagship Young Driver Campaign this September, warning that just two illegal tyres could cost new drivers their licence.
The refreshed campaign comes as national efforts intensify to reduce killed and seriously injured casualties among young road users. It aligns with the Government’s Road Safety Strategy and the National Police Chiefs’ Council Operation Spotlight, which runs from 22 September to 5 October.
Driving with unsafe or illegal tyres carries fines of up to £2,500 and three penalty points per tyre. For new drivers in their first two years on the road, just two illegal tyres — six penalty points — can lead to automatic licence revocation.
TyreSafe research found that 52% of UK drivers aged 17–24 do not realise they are legally responsible for the condition of tyres on any vehicle they drive, even if they do not own it.
The campaign promotes TyreSafe’s ACT message: Air pressure, Condition and Tread, giving young drivers practical knowledge to stay safe and legal.
Stuart Lovatt, Chair of TyreSafe, said: “Young and new drivers remain one of the highest-risk groups on UK roads, not only due to inexperience, but also because of the tighter restrictions placed on their licence.
“With the Government now setting out more ambitious targets to reduce killed and seriously injured casualties — particularly among young people — there is an even greater responsibility on all road safety partners to focus on educating young road users to be compliant and make them aware of the serious consequences if they aren’t.
“Tyres are one of the most critical safety factors on any vehicle, and young and new drivers have the responsibility to ensure that they are driving on safe, legal and compliant tyres. The repercussions, if they don’t, can be extremely punitive when it comes to penalty points, financial penalties and operating costs.
“Working alongside Operation Spotlight and in support of THINK!, this campaign ensures we can reach more young drivers than ever with advice that can directly reduce their risk of collisions, penalties, and licence loss.”
The campaign will run across TyreSafe’s social media channels and website, supported by videos, infographics and step-by-step guides. Police forces, driving instructors, schools, colleges and road safety partnerships are encouraged to share resources and support engagement with young drivers in their communities.
