Four killed by faulty tyres in Abu Dhabi last year

Drivers have been asked to ensure the safety of their vehicle’s tyres, especially during the hot summer months. Lee Hoagland / The National

Four people were killed and three severely injured in 17 traffic accidents in Abu Dhabi last year as a result of faulty tyres, authorities said.

Abu Dhabi Police are urging motorists to check their tyres to avoid blowouts, which can cause accidents.

Brig Khalifa Al Khaili, director of the Abu Dhabi Police traffic and patrols directorate, asked drivers to ensure the safety of their vehicle’s tyres, especially during the hot summer months. He also warned motorists that driving with expired or faulty tyres was a traffic offence punishable by having their vehicle impounded and a fine.

Last year, almost 30,000 cases of driving with unsafe tyres were recorded, with each offence earning the motorist a Dh500 fine and four black points.

Tyre debris on UAE roads is a common sight during summer as higher temperatures put added stress on them.

Brig Al Khaili said old tyres also lose air pressure and their prolonged use can lead to failure, particularly in summer.

He called on motorists to only purchase tyres that conform to safety specifications.

To prevent accidents, police have increased inspections and efforts to educate motorists on the dangers of driving on damaged or expired tyres.

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Read more:

Tyre checks urged after blowout leads to fatal Dubai bus crash

Faulty tyres kill 14 in Abu Dhabi last year

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Tyre safety tips:

• Purchase reputable and certified tyre brands – premium brands normally last longer.
• Ensure tyres are correct size and specification for the car as set out in the manual.
• UAE regulations require passenger car tyres to be sold within two years of the date of their manufacture and changed within five years. To check the age of tyres look for production date on their sidewalls which indicate the week and year they were manufactured. For example, 0217 means the tyre was produces on the 2nd week of 2017.
• Use a reputable mechanic to fit tyres properly.
• Inflate tyres to the car manufacturer's recommended level. This can be found in the owner's manual or on a sticker attached to the door frame or fuel tank cover.
• Check tyre pressure at least once a month when they are cold – driven less than 3km – or add 0.3 bar if tyres are warm.
• Check all four tyres for cracks, cuts, exposed cables or uneven wear routinely.
• Rotate tyres every 10,000 kilometres, or as advised by the vehicle manufacturer, to even out their wear. A wheel balance and alignment at this time will further prolong the life of tyres.