Check your tyres during summer! 56 accidents in RAK in 6 months

Ras Al Khaimah - Officials urged the motorists to inspect their tyres regularly

 Tyre burst has been blamed for 56 traffic accidents in Ras Al Khaimah in the first six months of the year, leading to serious injuries and big losses.
Brigadier Dr. Mohammed Saeed Al Humaidi, director general of the central operations department, RAK Police, said all the burst tyres were unfit for running on the road.
"The RAK police have urged all drivers to comply with tyre rules for both their safety and road users, and pay attention to the quality, brand, validity and air pressure."
Using bad quality tyres is a big risk and always leads to sudden and unexpected burst, particularly in hot weather, he explained. "All drivers should go for the mandatory annual check-up."
The traffic and patrols department here has booked some drivers for using unfit tyres on the road, he stated. "Some were involved in using used tyres to pass the tests and they were also fined."
Read: 4 ways to keep your car maintained during UAE's summer
All drivers should check the validity of tyres before buying them, Brig. Humaidi said. "The production date and quality of the tyre must be noticed and purchase can only be made from trusted  outlets."
The RAK police have run several campaigns to create awareness among the drivers about the importance of tyre validity, he said.
"These campaigns are held in the beginning of every summer because of the possible tyre burst under scorching temperatures."
Thousands of brochures are also distributed to drivers in Arabic, English and Urdu, he said. "All drivers need to be more cautious about their car tyres to avoid such tragic accidents."
The RAK police have also organised a number of lectures at government and private entities to enlighten the public about the same.
The social media platforms are also a good platform for communication with the public to boost their traffic safety and curb road accidents."
Sherif Al Wakeel, an Egyptian contractor, said he always goes for branded tyres that have a longer lifetime. "Tyres are but my legs on hot roads and I can never drive safely if they are not up to level and meet the set rules."
Abusing tyres in performing stunts is one of the reasons for bursting, according to Ahmed Jamil, a Syrian resident. "Driving at high speeds under the sun can also lead to tyre burst."
ahmedshaaban@khaleejtimes.com
 

• Ras Al Khaimah