RTA bans tyres over 5 years old on UAE roads; issues summer driving advisory
Roads and Transport Authority
(RTA) has issued an urgent reminder for motorists to conduct routine vehicle checks and servicing. The goal is to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of all road users during the harshest months of the year.
In coordination with the Ministry of Interior and Dubai Police, the RTA has launched its annual campaign titled 'Summer Without Accidents', emphasizing precautionary measures to avoid traffic incidents caused by the extreme weather.
Ahmed Al Khzaimy, director of traffic at RTA's Traffic and Roads Agency, emphasized the importance of simple yet effective maintenance:
'(We) urge all motorists to conduct regular and routine maintenance checks, including a quick inspection before setting off. This should involve a visual check of tyre pressure, engine oil and coolant levels, and ensuring there are no oil or water leaks beneath the vehicle.'
He explained that such quick inspections could help prevent unexpected breakdowns, which tend to increase the risk of traffic accidents and negatively affect road safety across the Emirate.
Tyres: The Critical Contact Point With the Road
Authorities have particularly stressed the need for motorists to check their tyres carefully. Tyres are the only part of a vehicle that comes in direct contact with the road, and under the intense summer heat, worn-out or old tyres are at risk of bursting. Such incidents can lead to severe road accidents with disastrous consequences.
Highlighting the dangers, Abu Dhabi authorities shared a video showing multiple vehicles, including a truck and several cars, losing control due to damaged tyres. The vehicles skidded across the roads, crashed into barriers, overturned, or sustained significant damage, all posing additional hazards to other road users.
The Five-Year Tyre Rule
RTA regulations strictly prohibit tyres that are older than five years from being used on UAE roads. This rule aims to reduce tyre-related accidents, which spike during the summer months.
Speaking to local news media outlet Khaleej Time, Thomas Edelmann, founder and managing director of RoadSafetyUAE, said:
'The number of vehicles parked on the hard shoulder with tyre defects increases in summer. Tyre debris, mainly from decomposing commercial vehicle tyres, can be seen more during the hot summer months.'
Edelmann added:
'The solution is to continuously educate motorists about the importance of tyre safety and maintenance. Tyres must be procured, fitted and maintained properly, especially during summer.'
The Deadly Danger of Leaving Children in Cars
One of the most alarming risks highlighted in the 'Summer Without Accidents' campaign is the danger of leaving children unattended inside vehicles. The RTA warned that children left in cars can suffer from suffocation and death within minutes, even if the air conditioning is on.
Ahmed Al Khzaimy strongly urged parents:
'Not to leave their children in the car, not even for a short period.'
He stressed that the air conditioning does not provide sufficient protection in a sealed environment where temperatures can rise rapidly and dangerously.
RTA's Essential Tips for Safe Summer Driving
To help motorists stay safe during the hot summer months, the RTA shared the following practical tips:
Ensure your vehicle's air conditioning is functioning properly and effectively cooling the interior during hot days.Check engine oil and radiator coolant levels regularly, especially in summer when engine temperatures can spike.Maintain correct tyre pressure and inspect tyre condition carefully to avoid blowouts caused by high temperatures.Keep your brake system clean and well-maintained; replace worn brake components to ensure optimal braking performance.Keep the vehicle tidy and clean, this helps with early fault detection and prolongs the vehicle's lifespan. Always ensure windscreens, windows, and headlights are clean for clear visibility.Avoid parking under direct sunligt for extended periods. Whenever possible, park in shaded areas to protect the vehicle from extreme heat damage.With summer temperatures reaching dangerous highs, the RTA's campaign serves as a crucial reminder that simple preventive measures can save lives on the roads.
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