As we approach the end of the year and families prepare to hit the road for the festive season, the Road Accident Fund (RAF) and the South African Tyre Manufacturers Conference (SATMC) have collaborated to introduce a tyre safety workshop. This initiative aims to educate law enforcement officials across the country about the signs of unlawful tyres that pose a threat to road safety. With the rising death toll each year, the RAF is actively seeking ways to improve road safety for its users and reduce accident rates.
The workshop covers various aspects, including the identification of safe tyres (considering tyre construction, markings, fitment, tread depth standards, and more), proper tyre maintenance, and the hazards associated with illegal and unsafe second-hand tyres. Surprisingly, there is a market for such tyres in South Africa. However, it’s crucial not to compromise on tyre quality, as your safety on the road depends on it.
The organization recently conducted its inaugural two-day workshop and educational roadblock in Jozini, KwaZulu-Natal, where over 180 officers received training in tyre safety. There are plans for 11 more sessions in major transport hubs like the Western Cape and Gauteng until March 2024.
South Africa has witnessed an influx of poor-quality, non-regulated tyres, and dangerous second-hand options, leading to road accidents and safety concerns. A study by the SATMC found that a staggering 63% of second-hand tyres sold on the roadside were illegal waste tyres. To address this issue, the RAF and SATMC have partnered to equip traffic officers with the knowledge to identify unsafe tyres and enforce regulations effectively, while also educating motorists on the importance of tyre safety.
It’s worth emphasizing that tyres play a pivotal role in road safety. Whether you’re a professional racer or a family driver, tyre performance can be the difference between safety and disaster. According to the Road Traffic Management Corporation’s 2021 State of Road Safety data, 41% of crashes in South Africa in 2021 were attributed to tyre failures before the accidents, while 15% of crashes resulted from smooth tyres.
Alarmingly, South Africa’s rubber producers have identified a significant number of non-roadworthy tyres in use on the country’s roads. Their estimates suggest that approximately 63% of the 1.5 to 2 million used tyres in South Africa are unroadworthy, a major cause for concern.
Before embarking on your festive journey with your family, ensure that your tyres are in optimal condition. It’s a crucial step to guarantee the safety of you and your loved ones while making cherished holiday memories for all the right reasons.