LCV operators 'not caring for tyres'

Date: 22/2/2011

Increasing numbers of van and light commercial vehicle (LCV) drivers are failing to take care of their tyres correctly, it has been revealed.

Following data compiled in the government's Vehicle and Operator Services Agency Effectiveness Report, TyreSafe has warned that such road users could be at risk of causing a tyre-related accident.

According to the figures, tyre condition came at the top of a list of the ten most common prohibition defects in vans and LCVs that were spot-checked between 2009 and 2010, at 25.7 per cent.

This is an increase from the 20.4 per cent recorded the previous year and the 20.5 per cent of 2007-08.

Stuart Jackson, Chairman of TyreSafe, said: "Building site debris or regular scuffing on kerbs during delivery drops can cause significant damage to tyres. If left unchecked, they may fail at a critical moment, risking serious injury for the driver and other road users."

The group notes that the responsibility for caring for tyres lies with both the driver and the business that owns the van.

Posted by Sarah Bailey