THE family of a young woman whose underinflated tyres contributed to her untimely death is encouraging drivers to ACT as part of a month-long campaign.

Officers from the Cleveland and Durham Specialist Operations Unit (CDSOU) are supporting national Tyre Safety Month which encourages drivers to ACT by checking their Air pressure, Condition and Tread at least once a month and before long journeys.

Megan Bryne was just 22 when she lost control of her car in bad weather last February.

The primary school teacher collided with another car and despite the best efforts of the emergency services, sadly died at the scene.

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Police collision investigators confirmed that Megan was driving within the speed limit and was wearing a seat belt at the time.

However, two of the tyres on her car were underinflated - a major contributory factor in the crash.

Now Megan’s family are backing the police campaign to highlight the importance of tyre safety checks.

Megan’s mum, Joanne, said: “We wanted to share Megan’s story as we certainly don’t want anyone else to go through what we have.

“It has taught me a lesson to check my tyres as I never used to do it – it’s such a shame that Megan has had to pass away for me to realise that.”

John, Megan’s dad, added: “She had a fantastic spirit about her – Megan would light up a room.

“We all miss her terribly. My advice is, don’t rely on your car’s tech. Go to all four corners of your car, get down, put a pressure gauge on it, and check it.”

Throughout October, officers will be out and about to educate drivers on road safety in a bid to prevent further unnecessary deaths.

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Each bald or defective tyre carries a fine of up to £2,500 and three penalty points.

Even though the tread depth of 1.6mm is the legal minimum, it is recommended that you replace your tyres once the tread is below 3mm as stopping distances increase dramatically for cars below this tread depth, particularly in wet weather conditions.

Inspector Kev Salter, of CDSOU, said: “Tyres are the only point of contact your vehicle has with the road so it is imperative they are in good, roadworthy condition.

“Any wear, damage or deflation could seriously affect things such as braking and handling.

“The winter months are coming and the roads can be treacherous, so for your own safety, that of your loved ones and for the safety of other road users, don’t take for granted that they are ok.

“I strongly advise and urge you all to have them checked. Most reputable garages will do this free of charge if you do not feel confident checking yourself.”

For more information on tyre safety visit www.tyresafe.org

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