The City of Wolverhampton Council has announced that its Compliance Team is carrying out random tyre checks on taxis and private hire vehicles this month as part of National Tyre Safety Month.
The initiative aims to raise awareness among professional drivers about the importance of tyre maintenance, helping to ensure passenger safety and reduce the risk of accidents. The campaign coincides with TyreSafe’s UK-wide “Under Pressure” initiative, which focuses on how financial strain and daily stress can lead motorists to neglect essential vehicle safety checks.
A council spokesperson said the operation highlights Wolverhampton’s ongoing commitment to maintaining high safety standards in the city’s taxi and private hire trade. “These inspections not only ensure compliance with licensing requirements but also remind drivers how crucial proper tyre care is for everyone’s safety on the road,” they added.
National findings raise concerns
Recent research from TyreSafe paints a worrying picture of driver habits:
- Only 46% of motorists check their tyre pressures monthly.
- 41% of students wait for a dashboard warning before checking their tyres.
- 60% of women admit to checking less than once a month.
- 71% of drivers find vehicle maintenance more stressful than managing personal relationships.
According to the Transport Research Laboratory and National Highways, 75% of tyre defects contributing to fatal collisions are caused by poor maintenance. It’s also estimated that six million tyres on UK roads are illegal every year, while one in five breakdowns on motorways or A-roads are linked to tyre failure.
TyreSafe’s safety message
Stuart Lovatt, Chair of TyreSafe, said:
“When life feels overwhelming, routine vehicle checks can easily be neglected. Yet something as basic as ignoring underinflated tyres can lead to life-threatening consequences. This year’s materials are helping road users of all kinds relieve the pressure by checking their tyres.”
Local impact on taxi and private hire vehicles
Wolverhampton’s vehicle licensing system already includes strict tyre safety checks, but the council’s participation in this month’s campaign adds an extra layer of reassurance. The message is clear — safe tyres save lives, and professional drivers have an even greater responsibility to lead by example.
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