TyreSafe partners with Older Drivers Forum to support safer driving for longer

Visit our Tyre Safe page to find useful tips on keeping our Tyres safe

UK road safety charity TyreSafe has announced a new partnership with the Older Drivers Forum, aimed at helping mature motorists, approximately 6.3 million drivers aged 70 and over, with a better understanding of the critical role tyres play in staying safe on the road as driving conditions and personal capabilities change with age.

The new partnership will focus on ensuring older drivers are equipped with the knowledge and tools to reduce risk — with particular emphasis on tyre condition, inflation and tread depth. Tyres play a vital role in braking performance and vehicle control, particularly in wet conditions where stopping distances are significantly increased. Research highlights just how critical tyre condition can be:

• At 70mph, worn tyres have seven times more effect on total stopping distance in wet weather than drinking alcohol
  (Source: Halfords plc and Professor Peter Wells, Cardiff University, December 2022)
• At 70mph, worn tyres add 27 metres — or 28% — to the Highway Code baseline stopping distance
  (123m vs. 96m baseline)
  (Source: Halfords plc and Professor Peter Wells, October 2023)
• At 50mph, wet braking distances increased by 6.9m on tyres at the legal minimum of 1.6mm compared to new tyres, while tyres with 3mm tread took only 2.7m longer to stop
  (Source: Continental Tyres)

These differences can be critical for drivers who may already be compensating for reduced reaction times or eyesight changes.

Through the partnership, TyreSafe and the Older Drivers Forum will work together to raise awareness of how maintaining roadworthy tyres — correct pressure, good condition and sufficient tread — can help improve safety and confidence behind the wheel.

“Tyres are the only part of the vehicle in contact with the road, and their condition can make a profound difference to stopping distances and vehicle control,” said Stuart Lovatt, Chair of TyreSafe.
“As we get older, even small increases in braking distance can have serious consequences. By working with the Older Drivers Forum, we want to ensure mature drivers understand how simple tyre checks can help them continue driving safely and confidently for longer.”

“Many older drivers want clear, practical advice they can trust,” said Rob Heard MBE, Chair of the Older Drivers Forum. “Our partnership with TyreSafe strengthens the support we can offer by highlighting the importance of tyres in real-world driving situations. Understanding how tyre condition affects stopping distances and vehicle control helps older drivers make informed decisions that protect themselves and others.”

TyreSafe will support the Forum with tyre safety expertise, educational content and evidence-based messaging, reinforcing the importance of regular tyre checks as part of safe driving at any age.

For more information on tyre safety, visit www.tyresafe.org.