Burst tyres caused 110 deaths in UAE last year

Federal Traffic Council launches scheme to highlight need to check tyre pressures

The RTA has said the new service is coming soon. Reem Mohammed / The National

More than 100 deaths were caused by burst tyres across the UAE last year, official figures have revealed.

The statistics, released by the Ministry of Interior, also showed they caused 785 accidents on the nation’s roads in 2018, resulting in more than 1,100 injuries.

The Federal Traffic Council has launched an awareness campaign warning motorists of the dangers of driving with poorly maintained tyres.

“Motorists should ensure the safety of their vehicles’ tyres by checking them periodically,” said Maj Gen Mohammed Saif Al Zafeen, chairman of the FTC.

“Traffic accidents can lead to deaths, injuries and financial damages.”

Mr Al Zafeen also urged motorists not to overload their vehicles, which increases the likelihood of worn rubber bursting.