Why Worn-Out Tyres Remain One of the Deadliest Threats on Nigerian Roads

Worn-out and poorly maintained tyres have continued to rank among the most dangerous yet overlooked causes of road crashes across Nigeria, according to road safety experts and transport regulators.

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Despite repeated warnings from the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), thousands of vehicles, particularly commercial buses, haulage trucks, and articulated vehicles still operate daily with bald, expired, or improperly inflated tyres, significantly increasing the risk of fatal accidents.

Road safety analysts note that tyre failure, especially burst tyres at high speed, often leads to loss of control, vehicle somersaults, and multiple-casualty crashes, particularly on highways.

How Bad Tyres Turn Minor Errors Into Fatal Crashes

Tyres are the only point of contact between a vehicle and the road. When they are worn out:

• Braking distance increases dramatically
• Vehicles lose grip during wet or dusty conditions
• Sudden tyre bursts become more likely at high speed
• Steering control is severely compromised

On many Nigerian highways, poor road surfaces combined with overloaded vehicles further accelerate tyre wear, making the danger even more severe.

According to transport unions, some drivers knowingly continue using expired tyres due to rising costs, choosing cheaper second-hand options commonly referred to as “Tokunbo tyres,” many of which have exceeded their safe lifespan.

Signs Your Tyres Are No Longer Safe

Automotive technicians warn motorists to immediately replace tyres if they notice:

• Smooth or nearly smooth tread patterns
• Visible cracks on tyre walls
• Frequent loss of air pressure
• Uneven tyre wear
• Tyres older than five years, even if they appear unused

Experts stress that tyre age is as critical as tread depth, as rubber compounds degrade over time.

FRSC Advisory to Motorists

The FRSC has repeatedly advised motorists to conduct basic pre-trip checks, with tyres listed as a top priority. Officers warn that tyre-related offences attract penalties and vehicle impoundment in severe cases.

Motorists are encouraged to:

• Use manufacturer-recommended tyre specifications
• Maintain correct tyre pressure
• Avoid overloading
• Reduce speed, especially on long journeys

Road safety advocates emphasise that tyre failure is one of the most preventable causes of road crashes.

Unlike speeding or reckless driving, tyre condition can be corrected before a journey begins.

As traffic volume continues to increase nationwide, experts warn that ignoring tyre safety will continue to cost lives unless motorists take responsibility for basic vehicle maintenance.