Lorry temporarily stopped due to loss of tyre pressure

1. Please conduct regular checks (at least monthly) of all tyres' inflation pressure when cold, including the spare wheel. Correct cold inflation pressures should follow the vehicle manufacturer's recommendations. Should pressure drop excessively quickly, investigate potential causes (e.g. punctures, cuts, perished or cracked valve rubber etc).
2. Definition of cold tyres: When the vehicle has been stationary for at least three hours or hasn't travelled more than 2 kilometres. If you must measure tyre pressure when hot, subtract approximately 0.3 bar (=4psi) from the measured reading to obtain the cold inflation pressure.
3. Any tyre operating under insufficient pressure will generate excessive heat and may ultimately lead to sudden tyre failure. Furthermore, both overinflation and underinflation will cause accelerated localised tread wear, thereby shortening the tyre's service life.
4. Poor driving habits causing sidewall abrasion. Repeated kerbing incidents, for example, will accelerate tyre wear and may eventually lead to gradual air loss.
5. Tyre ageing. Prolonged use leads to deterioration and cracking, which can similarly result in gradual air leakage. This type of slow puncture is particularly difficult to detect - consider inflating slightly above normal pressure for diagnostic purposes.
6. Alloy wheel deformation. Under normal circumstances, the tyre bead maintains an airtight seal with the wheel rim. However, any wheel deformation compromising this seal will lead to air leakage.

From a fleet manager’s perspective, a lorry losing tyre pressure highlights maintenance shortcomings. Proactive measures are key:

• Implement daily pre-trip inspections, focusing on tyre condition and pressure.
• Use telematics to monitor tyre health in real-time, reducing roadside failures.
• Train drivers to recognise early signs like unusual vibrations or handling changes.
• Partner with tyre specialists for regular servicing and rapid response breakdown cover.

Prevention minimises downtime and keeps operations running smoothly.

A lorry losing tyre pressure while driving is a serious safety issue that requires immediate action. The driver should follow these steps to handle the situation safely:

1. Stay calm and avoid sudden braking or steering. Gradually reduce speed and signal to move the lorry to a safe stopping point, such as the hard shoulder or a layby.
2. Turn on hazard lights to alert other road users. If on a motorway, use the emergency phone to contact Highways England for assistance.
3. Assess the damage. If it’s a slow puncture, a temporary repair with a tyre inflation kit may be possible. For a complete blowout, do not attempt to drive further.
4. Call for professional recovery if the tyre cannot be safely changed. Many breakdown services offer dedicated HGV assistance.

Preventative measures include regular tyre checks for pressure, tread depth (minimum 1mm for lorries), and visible damage. Tyre pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) can provide early warnings.