Drivers across the county are being warned of the dangers of not checking their car tyres before a long journey as new data shows more than half of motorists fail to do so.

According to research by National Highways, 55 per cent of UK drivers do not always check their tyre tread before a long journey.

It also found more than a fifth of drivers who have broken down on the motorway admit their breakdown could have been avoided with proper tyre checks.

Last year, there were more than 51,500 tyre-related breakdowns on England's motorways and major A-roads, an increase of 14 per cent since 2022.

This has prompted National Highways to partner with Kwik Fit for an autumn safety campaign to encourage drivers to check both the tread and pressure of their tyres.

National Highways is reminding drivers to have a safe TRIPNational Highways is reminding drivers to have a safe TRIP (Image: National Highways) Head of national road user safety at National Highways, Matt Staton, said: "These statistics are a stark reminder of the importance of tyre safety, particularly ahead of long journeys.

"Breakdowns caused by tyre issues are not only inconvenient but can also be dangerous for both the driver and other road users.

"We’re urging drivers to take a few minutes to check their tyre tread and pressure before setting off.

"It’s a small step that can make a big difference to your safety on the roads."

The campaign aims to remind drivers to have a safe TRIP, which serves as an acronym checklist, standing for top-up, rest, inspect, and prepare

It reminds drivers to top up fuel, water, and oil, rest every two hours, inspect tyres and lights, and prepare by planning their journey ahead and checking traffic and weather forecasts.

The main reasons given by drivers for not checking tyre tread ahead of a long journey include forgetfulness and the assumption it is covered in their annual MOT or service.

Kwik Fit's communications director, Roger Griggs, said: "While punctures are sometimes unavoidable, many tyre problems can be prevented with the correct maintenance.

"Drivers should regularly check tread depth and pressures, particularly ahead of long journeys."

The campaign offers several tyre safety tips, including ensuring the tread depth meets the legal minimum of 1.6mm, checking tyre pressure according to the vehicle handbook, and regularly inspecting tyres for damage.

Failure to comply with the legal tread depth can result in a £2,500 fine and up to three points on a driver's licence for each tyre below the limit.

Mr Griggs added: "Technology can provide drivers with an increasing range of safety features in their car, but the most critical factor will always be the ability to steer and stop effectively."