Tyre Safety
Tire Safety Benefits
Tires are a crucial vehicle feature that impacts overall performance while ensuring a comfortable and safe ride. Brakes stop the wheels, but tires are responsible for stopping the vehicle. Because tires directly contact the road, preserving their quality and safeguarding their performance is essential for safety. The contact area between the tires and the road is very small. Braking, traction, handling, steering, and comfort take place in this small area. A failure while driving at high speeds in this small area can lead to serious consequences. Worn tires can endanger lives and adversely impact your vehicle’s performance. The benefits of following tire safety guidelines include such things as improvements in your vehicle’s braking ability and acceleration.
Tire Safety Guide
There are many essential factors to consider when it comes to improving the safety of your tires. Taking time to explore these factors will help you with enhanced fleet safety, fuel consumption reduction, and a lowered cost per kilometer.
Tire Conditions
Checking tires before every trip as an essential part of the inspection process. This guide will help you understand what should be checked during each inspection.
Air Pressure
Checking air pressure on a regular basis is vital as tires often lose air with time and usage. Underinflated tires may cause heat build-up and, eventually, tire failure. Tires inflated incorrectly are subject to premature wear, which impacts their lifespan.
We recommend using a tire pressure gauge on a monthly basis to check air pressure. Check air pressure before taking long trips as well. The manufacturer’s manual for your vehicle will provide information about correct pressure for your tires. Before checking tire pressure, make sure your tires are cold. Heat generated while driving causes friction and will alter the reading on the gauge.
Tire Fitment
Tire fitment refers to the approved tire size used on your vehicle. Using the right tires with your fleet improves safety and enhances economy. Understanding tread patterns and referring to the manufacturer’s guide for optimal tire fitment can provide optimum grip and fuel efficiency. Always use a professional service for tire fitment and maintain the correct tire alignment and rotation.
Tire Handling
Proper handling of tires is crucial and involves such things as weight distribution arrangement, the overall geometry of the vehicle, ground contact elements (suspension, tires, and steering), and driving assistance systems (stability control and steering axle). Improper handling risks damaging wires and beads within the tires which may cause irreversible damage. Lifting tires should be done with flat straps instead of a crane hook. Be careful to handle tires properly by not standing on them and by lifting them under the tread.
Tire Choice
Safety is not just about how safely drivers drive their vehicles; it is equally dependent on tire choice. Choosing well when it comes to your tires, and considering aspects such as safety, value, comfort, and type of vehicle, is essential. Choosing a quality tire may help you avoid unfortunate events while ensuring a safe driving experience.
When considering the conditions of Middle Eastern and African roads, choosing tires that are well suited for such driving conditions is essential. Pilot Tyres are designed with your fleet requirements in mind. We’ll help you navigate treacherous environments while offering you long-term economical choices and safety.
Tire Replacement
With regular wear and tear, tires will wear out. Worn tires lose their ability to grip the road efficiently which can directly impact the safety of your fleet. A sufficient tread will ensure that your tires provide maximum traction for braking and acceleration. Replacing tires as needed is necessary to ensure a safe driving experience for everyone on the road.
Tire Storage
Correctly stored tires deliver enhanced performance and longer durability. Optimal storage conditions avoid premature wear, cracking, and damage. Cleaning tires before you store them will help prevent damage as well.
Never store tires in the open air, even if they have a protective cover surrounding them. Cool, dry, and moderately ventilated areas out of the sun are optimal for storing tires. Store them under plastic covers in a dark, enclosed space; climate-controlled spaces or garages are ideal. Shield your tires from any heat source present in the storage area. Store them vertically, side by side; not stacked on top of each other, as this may cause damage to the rubber and structure of the tires. A tire storage rack may be an optimal solution.
Be Proactive
Inspect your tires periodically for wear and damage to prevent problems from occurring. Scheduling fixed inspection dates and being methodical in your pre-trip inspections will give you the best driving experience possible.