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In a recent ruling by the Bombay high court, New India Assurance Co.’s plea has been rejected over paying compensation to the family of a driver who passed away in a car accident after a tyre burst. The company contended that it was an “act of God” but the high court ruled it as an act of human negligence.
Justice Dige stated, “‘act of god is an instance of uncontrollable natural forces in operation.’ “It refers to a severe unanticipated natural event for which no human is responsible. The bursting of a tyre is an act of human negligence. He mentioned that a tyre can burst due to multiple reasons like high speeds, poor tyre maintenance, over-inflated tyres and many more. Therefore, it is necessary for drivers to check the tyre condition before travelling or it could lead to hazardous incidents.
Why Tyre Safety Is Important?
Much emphasis has been laid on tyre safety due to recurring incidents that happen due to tyre bursts, misaligned tyres, or low-quality tyres. A tyre accident can be catastrophic and may cause serious injuries. Tyres are the only point of contact between the vehicle and the road, thus the stability and performance of any vehicle depend heavily on the tyres.
Damaged tyres lead to loss of control while driving as uneven wear and tear may cause issues at high speeds. Tyre safety is also important because they are an important component in braking. The brake system gets damaged if the tyres are unable to stop at the right time, or they glide in because of poor wear over a period of time.
Properly inflated tyres are also crucial for improving the fuel efficiency of the vehicle. Tyres with improper inflation lead to high rolling resistance, which in turns lead to poor fuel efficiency. It’s dangerous if the fuel tank gets empty on an expressway, which could cause major problems for the driver and the passengers.
Many people forget about the comfort that good tyres can provide. They absorb all the vibrations on poor roads, cause lower noise, and provide cushioning on difficult terrains. In such cases, tyres are more susceptible to bursting than on highways and other roads. Therefore, it is necessary to ensure tyres are in proper condition before driving on damaged roads.
With proper tyre safety, the driver and passengers can ensure their safety and avoid any accidents. Tyres play a crucial role in protecting everyone onboard as they are responsible for handling the vehicle in the right manner.
How To Keep Tyres In Check?
Checking the condition of tyres is essential for proper maintenance and ensuring the vehicle and passengers are safe on the road. Here are a few things to check the state of the tyres before travelling –
- Examine Tyre Tread Depth
The tread is the rubber on the surface of the tyre that contacts the road. Examining and measuring the tread depth is important to ensure whether the tread is worn out or still in a suitable condition. A worn-out tyre will cause excess friction, high rolling resistance, lower fuel efficiency, and ultimately lead to dangers on the road.
- Check For Cracks Or Bulges
If there are cracks or bulges in the tyre, it’s time to replace it. Even a minor crack can cause a blowout as the tyre is weaker than its original condition. Check for visible signs on the tyre surface and ensure it has no cracks.
- Maintain Tyre Pressure
Regularly check the tyre pressure to ensure the tyre is properly inflated and performing in its optimal condition. Overinflated and under-inflated tyres are two of the most common reasons for tyre bursts. Low tyre pressure can also lead to poor fuel efficiency and cause uneven wear.
- Inspect For Uneven Wear
Uneven wear generally indicates a problem with the alignment, balance, and handling of the vehicle. If there’s any uneven wear, it can cause serious issues and present safety risks on highways and city roads. To avoid uneven wear, it is important to get the tyres inspected by a professional.
Conclusion
Ensuring the good condition of tyres is important to avoid any potential breakdowns or accidents. From uneven wear to tyre bursts, poor maintenance can cause a lot of issues that can be heavy on the vehicle, driver, and passengers. Make sure the tyre stays in proper condition and matches all the legal compliances to achieve safety and stability on the road.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) related to tyre maintenance and inspection for safe travel
Q: Why is it important to check my vehicle’s tyres before traveling?
Ans: Your tyres are the only contact points between your vehicle and the road. Ensuring their proper condition before traveling can prevent accidents caused by tyre blowouts, punctures, or other issues.
Q: What should I check for during a tyre inspection?
Ans: You should check your tyre’s air pressure, tread depth, overall condition, and any signs of damage or wear. Also, make sure to check the spare tyre as well.
Q: How often should I inspect my tyres?
Ans: You should inspect your tyres at least once a month and before long trips. Additionally, regular maintenance, such as rotating and balancing the tyres, can help extend their lifespan and ensure their optimal condition.
Q: What is the recommended tyre pressure for my vehicle?
Anns: The recommended tyre pressure can usually be found in the owner’s manual or on a sticker located on the driver’s side doorjamb. It’s essential to maintain the correct tyre pressure for your vehicle, as underinflated or overinflated tyres can affect their performance and safety.
Q: Can I still drive on my tyre if it has a puncture?
Ans: It depends on the size and location of the puncture. In some cases, a puncture can be repaired, but in others, the tyre may need to be replaced. Driving on a punctured tyre can also be dangerous, as it can lead to a blowout or other issues.
Q: What should I do if I notice any signs of tyre damage or wear?
Ans: If you notice any signs of damage or wear, such as bulges, cracks, or low tread depth, you should have your tyre inspected by a professional immediately. It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your safety on the road.
