The advice is "don't chance it" as motorists nationwide are being offered a free tyre check as part of this year's Irish Road Safety Week 2021.

From October 4 to 10, the Irish Tyre Industry Association (ITIA) has teamed up with the Road Safety Authority (RSA) and An Garda Siochána to promote the importance of safety on the roads.

They've designated Wednesday next, October 6 as ‘Tyre Safety Day’ to remind all road users to check their tyres for tread depth, correct pressure and for defects. Garda checkpoints will focus on tyre safety during the period. All ITIA members are participating in Road Safety Week by offering free tyre checks on all cars, vans and HMVs for the duration of the week.

“Tyres are the only point of contact between your vehicle and the road, yet the importance of tyres to vehicle safety is often neglected," ITIA Chief Executive, Sue O’Neill, said.

"There are expert ITIA technicians available nationwide to give your tyres a free overall check and advice on how to check your vehicle correctly on a regular basis for pressure, wear and the tread depth of your tyre. Our message is: "don’t chance it – check your tyres and it could save your life”," she added.