Dunlop Tyres South Africa extends heartfelt condolences to the families of the 1,502 lives lost during the 2024/25 festive season, underscoring the urgent need for improved road safety.
The recent road fatality statistics, shared by Minister of Transport Barbara Creecy, highlight the critical need for stricter tire maintenance and road safety measures.
Worn Tyres Among Top Traffic Offences
In the first five days of the festive season, the Department of Transport’s first-week report revealed that worn tires ranked among the top five offenses noted by traffic officials, who stopped nearly 20,000 vehicles.
“This is a major concern for Dunlop,” says CEO Lubin Ozoux. “Worn tires reduce grip, increase blowout risk, and extend stopping distances—making them a serious hazard. Since tire wear happens gradually, regular inspections are essential to prevent failures and keep all road users safe, especially during peak travel periods.”
“If you’re unsure about your tires’ condition, visit a tire dealer for an expert check-up. Prioritize safety—for yourself and others on the road,” says Ozoux.
Tyre Safety: A Shared Responsibility
As a leading tire manufacturer, Dunlop Tyres SA is committed to raising awareness about the vital role of tire maintenance in road safety. Well-maintained tires save lives, improve performance, and enhance fuel efficiency.
Key Safety Tips for Drivers:
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Inspect your tires regularly: Check tread depth, tire pressure, and overall condition before every journey. Ensure your tires have at least 1mm tread depth and replace them before reaching this limit.
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Avoid overloading: Excess weight accelerates tire wear and reduces handling capabilities.
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Rotate and balance tires: Regular rotation and balancing extend tire lifespan and improve stability.
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Replace worn tires promptly: Don’t wait until tires are visibly damaged—replace them when wear is noticeable or performance declines.
Lubin Ozoux, CEO of Dunlop Tyres SA, said: “This is of particular concern to Dunlop. Worn tires significantly compromise a vehicle’s safety and performance due to reduced grip on road surfaces, they are weaker and more prone to blowouts, and stopping a vehicle on worn tires takes longer, among many other failures. Importantly, worn tires do not take place instantly, it takes time for the tire material to wear down. This is why regular inspections are necessary. Worn tires highlight the direct connection between vehicle maintenance and the safety of all road users, especially over peak traffic seasons such as the year-end holiday season.”