46,696 motorists were found using worn-out tyres in their vehicles in Abu Dhabi last year, according to the Traffic and Patrols Department of Abu Dhabi Police.
As per federal traffic laws, drivers of vehicles with worn-out tyres can be fined Dh200 and their vehicles impounded for a week, though no black points are given.
The Traffic and Patrols Department noted a drop in tyre blowout accidents in 2013 as a result of greater awareness among drivers about using worn-out tyres.
According to statistics, five people died and six were seriously injured in 36 accidents caused by tyre blowouts last year against 13 deaths and 18 seriously hurt in 53 tyre bursts in 2012.
Lieutenant General Jamal Al Amri, head of public relations at the Department of Traffic and Patrols, stressed the importance of checking air pressure of tyres every week and ensuring that all the four tyres of the vehicle are balanced.
He said excess speed, high temperatures, overloaded vehicles and friction of the tyres with the asphalt on the roads sometimes lead to bursting of tyres.
Al Amri called for periodic inspection of tyres and their replacement if cracks are found as a result of long use or high temperatures.
He also urged drivers to avoid buying cheap second-hand tyres or which are damaged or have manufacturing defects, as they carry the risk of bursting.
6 causes of tyre blowouts:
1. Using second-hand tyres or those not conforming to technical standards.
2. High temperatures.
3. Driving at high speed.
4. Stunts indulged in by reckless drivers, particularly youngsters, on the roads.
5. Too less or too high air pressure which changes the shape of tyres while moving.
6. Collision of tyres with the sidewalk or solid objects fallen from other vehicles
Measures to avoid tyre blowouts
1. Ensure that the load on the vehicle is within allowable limits.
2. Read data printed on the tyre before buying it.
3. Checking tyres and their balance regularly
What to do in case of a tyre burst
1. Hold the steering wheel with both hands.
2. Lift foot from gas pedal.
3. Avoid using the brake to prevent burning of tyres.
4. Choose a safe place to stop and change tyre.