Have a safe T.R.I.P. this autumn
Have a safe T.R.I.P. this autumn
We want you to be safe on the roads this autumn.
As the weather becomes colder and more changeable, tyre safety becomes even more important. Worn, underinflated or damaged tyres are far more likely to cause avoidable collisions or breakdowns. In fact, tyre issues were the leading cause of breakdowns on the UK’s major roads in 2024, with more than 53,000 incidents – almost a fifth of the total incidents recorded.
Yet 55% of us admit we don’t check tread depth before long journeys, and 48% don’t always check tyre pressure. With more than six million illegal tyres thought to be on Britain’s roads, the consequences are significant – from wasted fuel costs of up to £1 billion each year to the far greater cost of lives lost. In 2023 alone, over 190 people were killed or seriously injured in tyre-related collisions. Correctly inflated tyres also last longer, saving money while reducing microplastic pollution.
This autumn, we’re joining TyreSafe’s Tyre Safety Month to remind drivers how vehicle checks can make a big difference. Before setting off, check your tyre tread, pressure and condition. It could prevent a breakdown or a collision.
We understand that some customers with accessibility or mobility needs may face challenges carrying out T.R.I.P. checks. That’s why we’re working with partners who will check your vehicle for you to help you stay safe on your journey. Find out how we can help.
Find out more about tyre checks.
T.R.I.P. Top-up, Rest, Inspect, Prepare
Win up to £50 vouchers with our new T.R.I.P. game
Play our new online game to learn the simple T.R.I.P. safety checks before you travel. Each month, one player will win up to £50 in Halfords vouchers, redeemable online or in-store until 9 May 2027. Play now for your chance to enter our monthly prize draw for the next 12 months.
Play the game and enter nowT
Top-up
fuel, oil, screen-wash
Top-up
Fill up fuel, check your oil and screen-wash, ensure you're charged
Over 33% of breakdowns are caused by vehicles losing power, having engine issues or running out of fuel. Most of these problems can be avoided if you check and top up your vehicle's fluid levels.
Before setting out, check your fuel levels and make sure you have enough to get to your destination. Or know where you can stop to fill up.
Check your oil level: use the dipstick to check and top up if required.
Check your screen wash is topped up so you can clear any debris or dirt off your windscreen and ensure you have good visibility.
R
Rest
every 2 hours
Rest
Plan to take a break every 2 hours
To enjoy a comfortable road trip, you should take a break for at least 15 minutes every two hours.
To prevent tiredness and stay alert consider stopping somewhere you can go for a walk and get some fresh air. You can stop at a motorway services area or even have a picnic at a National Trust site or country park.
Search for National Trust properties close to your route
What are the risks of not taking regular breaks?
- Falling asleep at the wheel
- Your ability to detect threats decreases, and your reaction time increases.
- Negative effects on your mood and behaviour behind the wheel.
I
Inspect
tyres
Inspect
your tyres
In 2024, there were more than 53,000 tyre-related breakdowns on major A roads and motorways – accounting for nearly one in five (19%) of all recorded incidents. Give yourself time to check your tyre treads before long journeys, and get them replaced if there is less than 1.6mm of tread (the legal minimum).
You should also check your tyres’ pressure. If they're over, or under-inflated, even by as little as 10% it can affect your car's performance, making it more dangerous when braking and steering. You may need to inflate your tyres to a higher pressure if you have more luggage or passengers than normal.
Finally, ensure there are no bulges or cracks on your tyres and that they are in good condition before hitting the roads this autumn.
If you’re buying new tyres this season, you should check the labels to ensure they provide the right balance of safety, efficiency and performance. For more information, read this guidance on tyre labels.
Learn more about tyre maintenance on our vehicle checks page
P
Prepare
for weather
Prepare
for the weather
The weather can make a big difference to your journey. In fact, over a third (34%) of drivers involved in collisions or near-misses on major roads say conditions played a part. Take a moment to check the forecast for your route and destination, so you’re ready for rain, fog or sudden changes in temperature.
Autumn driving can be unpredictable, so it’s worth keeping a few comforting essentials in the car: a raincoat, some water, a torch, a blanket and a few snacks. Clean windscreens and lights will help with visibility, and a pair of sunglasses can make driving easier when the sun is low.
Read more weather related guidance.
Finally, you should check your route before setting off, to see if there are any incidents or roadworks you need to be aware of.
