More than one in four light commercial vehicles stopped by the Vehicle and Operator Service Agency (VOSA) in the UK in roadworthiness checks received “prohbition” notices because of the condition of their tyres.

Most recent VOSA figures show that 26 percent of these vehicles were prohibited because of the condition of their tyres.

One of the major causes of tyre problems on vans is overloading coupled with under inflation and the stress placed on tyres under these circumstances. Tyres carrying excessive loads can lead to heat to build up in the tyres which can adversely affect their grip and handling characteristics. Should the tyre fail because of these issues, the results can be fatal.

Running tyres above their recommended load capacity – details of which are contained in the vehicle handbook – can also dramatically increase tread wear and the operating life cycle of the tyre leading to premature wear and replacement.

This means that operators would be forced to replace tyres more often adding significantly to their operational costs. Overloading a tyre compromises a vehicle’s handling characteristics which can result in longer stopping distances and the potential loss of steering say experts. Aside from that, the risk of a tyre failure is increased when the van is overloaded as it can not only endanger the driver but passengers and other road users.