National Highways has launched the latest phase of its T.R.I.P. road safety campaign, encouraging drivers to carry out simple vehicle checks before setting off – with a particular focus on tyre safety.
The autumn campaign coincides with Tyre Safety Month and aims to encourage drivers to make checking their tyres part of their routine before a journey.
The latest National Highways figures show that the number of breakdowns recorded on England’s motorways and A-roads has increased by 24% since 2022.
At the same time, research commissioned by National Highways found that 11% of UK driving licence holders had missed or delayed their last MOT, while 17% had put off their last scheduled service. Of those who had delayed an MOT or service, more than half (56%) continued to drive their vehicle.
Tyre-related issues remain the biggest single cause of breakdowns, accounting for 19% of all recorded incidents in 2025.
However, almost a quarter (23%) of UK driving licence holders said they had ignored a tyre-related MOT advisory. Of those, 34% said they did not think the issue was urgent, while 28% said they could not afford the repair. A further 19% planned to wait until their next MOT or service.
National Highways is using the latest campaign wave to remind drivers to check their tyres before setting off, including tread depth, pressure and overall condition.
Drivers are advised to check their tyre tread and replace tyres if the tread depth is below the legal minimum of 1.6mm. They should also check that tyre pressures are correct for the vehicle and the load being carried, and look for cuts, bulges or other damage to the tyre walls.
The campaign forms part of National Highways’ wider T.R.I.P. advice – Top-up, Rest, Inspect and Prepare – designed to help drivers prepare for safer and more stress-free journeys.
The four T.R.I.P. checks encourage drivers to:
- Top-up – check fuel, oil and screenwash before setting off.
- Rest – plan to take a break of at least 15 minutes every two hours.
- Inspect – check tyre tread, pressure and condition.
- Prepare – check the weather and route and make sure the vehicle and driver are ready for the journey.
National Highways says that taking a few minutes to carry out basic checks before a journey can help prevent an avoidable breakdown, saving drivers time, money and inconvenience.
The campaign’s autumn advice also highlights the importance of preparing for changing weather conditions, including checking the forecast, keeping windscreens and lights clean and carrying useful items such as water, a torch and warm clothing.
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