December 18, 2015 – Bridgestone Middle East and Africa FZE today released results from a survey on motorists in Lebanon, gauging their awareness of tyre safety. The findings reveal that almost 42% of all respondents do not check the condition of their vehicle’s tyres regularly.
The survey, conducted at the recently held Tyre Safety and Eco Station campaign in Le Mall, Dbayeh, Beirut in October, shows that many drivers neglect basic tyre safety measures and travel in vehicles that are potentially unsafe. Of those drivers who did not check their tyres on a regular basis, 31% mentioned a lack of time, while around 25% of respondents did not know how to do so and 16% did not find it important.
“Our survey results clearly show that many drivers do not conduct basic tyre checks periodically. Checking tyre air pressure is a hassle-free task and should be done at least once a month. Tyres must also be inspected often for cracks, bulges and any foreign objects lodged in them. Regular maintenance can prevent accidents and prolong tyre life,” said Evelina Voynova, G.M., Administration, Bridgestone Middle East & Africa FZE, in charge of CSR & Tyre Safety related initiatives.
Additional information from the survey shows that 43% of respondents were unaware of the correct air pressure for their vehicle. This information can be found on the driver’s door frame or in the owner’s handbook. Furthermore, 59% of respondents did not know that there is a relation between tyre safety and fuel efficiency. Driving a vehicle with properly inflated tyres aids in reducing fuel consumption thus reducing CO2 emissions which helps the environment.
Half of the respondents did not know about the ‘tread wear indicator’ on tyres. These are raised bars that are moulded into the grooves of tyres. Tyres should be replaced when the tread wear indicators are at the same level as that of the tyre surface.
“Bridgestone is committed to educating motorists and encouraging the practice of tyre safety. All visitors at the Tyre Safety and Eco Station campaign had the opportunity to learn how to inspect tyres with the assistance of tyre safety experts. The campaign which was conducted in Lebanon in partnership with Ahmad El-Sawi Zantout Ests. Co., Bridgestone’s sole distributor in the country, will be followed by a similar campaign in Egypt towards the end of this year”, added Evelina.
