One-third of motorists in Bahrain do not check the condition of their vehicle’s tyres regularly and travel in potentially unsafe vehicles, according to a survey.

The survey was organised by Bridgestone Middle East and Africa FZE in partnership with AJM Kooheji Group, Bridgestone’s sole distributor in Bahrain, and was based on gauging the awareness of tyre safety of motorists in Bahrain, said a statement from the comapny.

The survey conducted at the Tyre Safety and Eco Station campaign in Bahrain City Centre in June shows that many drivers neglect basic tyre safety measures and travel in vehicles that are potentially unsafe, it said.

Also the drivers who did not check their tyres on a regular basis, 40 per cent mentioned a lack of time, while around 20 per cent of respondents did not know how to do so or did not find it important, it added.

Additional information from the survey shows that almost 30 per cent of respondents were not aware of the correct air pressure for their vehicle. This information can be found on the driver's door frame or in the owner’s handbook.

A slightly greater number of 40 per cent did not know about the ‘tread wear indicator’ on tyres. These are raised bars that are moulded into the grooves of tyres. Tyres should be replaced when the tread wear indicators are at the same level as that of the tyre surface, said the statement.

Evelina Voynova, general manager, administration, Bridgestone Middle East & Africa FZE, in charge of corporate social responsibility (CSR) & tyre safety related initiatives, said: “While awareness regarding tyre safety is not alarmingly low, there still is a sizable portion of the population that needs to prioritise it. Tyre air pressure should be checked at least once a month.”

“Tyres must also be inspected often for cracks, bulges and any foreign objects lodged in them. Regular maintenance can prevent accidents and save money by improving fuel-efficiency,” she said.

“Bridgestone is committed to educating motorists and to encourage the practice of tyre safety, we distributed compact air pressure gauges to survey participants during the Tyre Safety and Eco Station Campaign,” she added. – TradeArabia News Service