TyreSafe, has been awarded the esteemed Prince Michael International Road Safety Award, marking a significant milestone in its nearly 20 years of campaigning for safer roads. The award recognises TyreSafe’s dedication to reducing the risks posed by poorly maintained and illegal tyres, which are a major contributor to road accidents. This globally recognised accolade is a testament to the charity’s pioneering work and its evolving strategic approach to road safety.
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The Prince Michael International Road Safety Awards are among the most coveted honours in the field of road safety, awarded to organisations that demonstrate outstanding achievements in making roads safer. TyreSafe’s recognition comes at a pivotal moment, just two years after Stuart Lovatt was appointed Chairman in 2022, a period marked by substantial growth in the charity’s influence and impact.
TyreSafe was specifically recognised for its pioneering research strategy, which has provided robust evidence to support its campaigns and call for action. The charity’s 2023 Tread Depth Survey and the Post Collision Study have played a crucial role in quantifying the scale of the issue posed by illegal and poorly maintained tyres. This year, TyreSafe expanded its research to include random roadside checks, offering a broader comparison of tyre conditions across different vehicles.
The charity’s research has not only provided critical insights but also paved the way for targeted regional campaigns. Working closely with regional authorities and Devolved Assemblies, TyreSafe has been able to address the specific risks faced by road users in various parts of the UK.
The Fatal Research Study, using the National Highways database, also revealed some eye-opening statistics. According to this study, 75% of tyre defects that led to fatal accidents could have been prevented with proper maintenance. This finding underscores the limitations of relying solely on KSI (Killed or Seriously Injured) data from the STATS19 system and highlights the need for a more comprehensive approach to tyre safety.
TyreSafe’s achievements are underpinned by its strong partnerships with more than 130 organisations across governmental, non-profit, road safety, and commercial sectors. This extensive network amplifies TyreSafe’s message, ensuring it reaches a wide audience of road users. By leveraging collective insights and data, TyreSafe continues to create impactful campaigns that keep tyre safety at the forefront of public awareness.
Despite these efforts, the charity recognises that awareness alone is not enough. Lasting change requires an integrated approach, ensuring that drivers and riders not only understand the importance of tyre safety but also take consistent action to maintain their tyres. TyreSafe’s campaigns aim to facilitate tangible behavioural changes, encouraging regular tyre checks and maintenance across all vehicle types.
Commenting on the award, Stuart Lovatt, TyreSafe’s Chair, said: “We are truly honoured to receive this prestigious recognition. This award is a testament to the hard work and commitment of everyone involved with TyreSafe, from our supporters to our partners. It demonstrates our shared dedication to making the UK’s roads safer for everyone by promoting essential tyre safety practices. While we’ve made significant strides, our mission continues as we work towards achieving zero harm to road users.”
Mike Bourne, a Trustee of TyreSafe, echoed Lovatt’s sentiments, stating: “The Prince Michael International Road Safety Award is a remarkable achievement for TyreSafe and highlights the importance of our ongoing work. We’re a small team and rely solely on the contributions of our supporters to reach as many road users as possible. Through collaboration and targeted campaigns, we are driving the message that tyre safety is not just a responsibility but a critical element of road safety.”
As TyreSafe continues to grow its influence in road safety, this award reinforces its commitment to reducing tyre-related accidents and promoting proactive tyre maintenance. With the ongoing support of its partners and stakeholders, the charity remains dedicated to ensuring tyre safety is a top priority for all road users, helping to make the UK’s roads safer for everyone.
