Citation

Lamptey G, Lamptey G, Lamptey J. Proc. Road Saf. Four Continents Conf. 2010; 15: 755-770.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2010, Conference Sponsor)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

The prevalent use of used tires on vehicles mainly in developing countries has been a major source of concern for most transportation agencies in these countries. It is estimated that about two-thirds of tires imported and sold in developing countries are used tires. The recent increase of vehicle tire related road incidents such as tire blow-outs have been attributed to the influx of imported used tires into these countries for resale to consumers. Although used tires are generally perceived as less safe than new tires, the significantly reduced initial cost is very attractive to consumers. This study attempts to establish the magnitude of the problems, challenges and adverse impacts associated with aged or home used tires in developing countries using Ghana, a developing nation in sub-Saharan West Africa as a case study. Relevant data for the study included tire importation data and distribution, used tire tread depth and accident data for the past five (5) years on all road links. In addition, a questionnaire survey was conducted throughout the country in order to obtain used tire and road usage information from road users and stakeholders. The data collected was assembled into a comprehensive database and further analyzed using transportation econometric models o identify possible accident correlation to used tire usage in and to provide a quantitative assessment for predicting the likelihood of tire related incidents in Ghana. The study identified five key factors as having the most influence on the occurrence of tire related road incidents. These include, condition of tire bought (used or new), tire pressure check frequency, tire tread depth or wear check frequency, tire replacement frequency and annual kilometers driven. The study also indicated that the majority of imported used tire tread depths are between 3 mm to 4 mm which increases the risk of road accidents on roadways by approximately 30%. The outcome of this study will assist the transportation agencies in developing countries in their publicity and awareness campaigns aimed at reducing tire related road traffic accidents.