Five minutes before you drive: the summer tyre checks that matter

Nearly every fatal accident on UAE roads occurs on clear days with good weather, according to Ministry of Interior data from 2024. That year, 98% of casualties, involving 384 deaths and 6,062 injuries, happened in favorable conditions - no fog or rain. The situation worsened in 2025, with further increases in accidents and casualties as vehicle numbers and new licenses rose.

The key to preventing these accidents lies in preparation, which can be done in just five minutes. The most crucial step is checking tyre pressure, which should be performed when the tyres are cold and before driving. Compare the reading to the figure on the door jamb sticker rather than the sidewall, which indicates a maximum pressure. Don't forget to check the spare as well.

Next, inspect the sidewalls for any cracking, bulges, or cuts, and look for uneven wear across the tread. This irregular wear usually indicates an alignment or pressure issue rather than a tyre problem itself. Then, consider the age of the tyres. Each tyre has a four-digit code on the sidewall showing the week and year of manufacture. As rubber ages, it loses elasticity, so even a tyre with legal tread depth may be unsafe if it's too old.

Another important factor is load. A heavily loaded boot changes the required tyre pressure, so always check the correct figure for a laden vehicle, which is usually printed alongside the standard one. It's also essential to remember that air expands as it warms, so a tyre inflated correctly at 6am will read higher by midday.

Heat is particularly concerning during the summer. Michelin, a leading tyre manufacturer, understands the unique challenges of driving in this region and has developed technologies to address heat and wear. Their tyres feature MaxTouch, a contact patch design that spreads braking and acceleration forces evenly across the tread, reducing heat buildup. EverGrip and EverTread optimize compound and tread pattern, ensuring proper water evacuation and braking performance even as the tyre wears down.

Despite these advancements, proper tyre maintenance remains crucial. Michelin emphasizes that the right pressure, sound condition, and service life are essential for optimal performance. Drivers should check their tyres once a month before the summer heat intensifies.