New data highlights a dangerous gap between driver confidence and vehicle maintenance
TyreSafe is warning that overconfidence among UK drivers may be masking a critical safety issue, as new data reveals a disconnect between perceived driving ability and basic vehicle checks.
According to the latest research, 42% of drivers believe they are better than average at handling emergencies, rising to over half of male drivers (51%).However, this confidence is not matched by behaviour:
• 1 in 10 drivers have never checked their tyre pressure or tread depth
• Only a quarter have checked their tyres in the past month
This trend is consistent across regions, with variations in behaviour suggesting that awareness and routine maintenance remain inconsistent nationwide.
Stuart Lovatt, Chair of TyreSafe, said, “Confidence is not a substitute for preparation. No matter how skilled a driver believes they are, tyres ultimately determine how a vehicle performs in an emergency.
“You cannot outdrive poor tyre condition. Regular checks are essential to ensure your vehicle responds as expected when it matters most.”
TyreSafe is reminding drivers that tyres are the only point of contact with the road—and even small issues can significantly impact braking, grip and control.
Call to action:
Make tyre checks part of your routine.
Act before you REact.
