Road Safety
“Uninspired” and “lackluster” were just a few of the words used by fans and pundits to describe Arsenal’s performance against Shakhtar Donetsk during their UEFA League match on October 22, 2024, at the Emirates Stadium. As an avid fan, I found myself reflecting on whether I might follow in the footsteps of my brother, Chris Kehinde Nwandu, who famously left Arsenal for Manchester United. I could almost hear him celebrating with palm wine back at his villa in Obowo, Imo State, as he relished my moment of despair.
But in that moment, I remembered the loyalty that comes with being a true Gunners supporter. Real fans don’t abandon ship; they stay committed and focused through the ups and downs. That’s why I decided to stick with Mikel Arteta’s project, which has shown the potential to be competitive in both the Premier League and on the world stage, despite what critics like CKN may say.
To be honest, watching the match against Shakhtar Donetsk was painful. It became painfully clear that the team lacks depth. The absence of Odegard and Saka was evident, yet Gabriel Martinelli stood out, along with our goalkeeper, David Raya, and Kai Havertz.
When I compare Arsenal’s performance to teams like Real Madrid, who rallied back from a two-goal deficit thanks to Vinicius Jr.’s brilliant play, it’s hard not to feel disappointed. Aston Villa and Barcelona also showed their strength recently. While our Gunners struggled with creativity in midfield and nervous defending, opportunities were squandered by Gabriel Jesus and Leandro Trossard.
But enough about football. Let’s shift gears to a subject I’m passionate about: road safety. As Robbie Lyle from Arsenal Fan Television wisely said, there were at least two positives from the match: we kept eleven men on the pitch, and we won. Yet, despite our struggles, we’re still a class above many other clubs.
Now, let’s dive into my tire talk. Tires are one of the most crucial yet often misunderstood components of a vehicle. Without good tires, your vehicle is practically useless; they are essential for starting, moving, and stopping safely.
Purchasing tires is something that requires careful consideration because it impacts your safety and that of others on the road. Before making a purchase, consider the size of the tire, its age, and its physical condition.
Starting with size, if you look at the sidewall of your tires, you’ll find numbers like 215/75/15 or 195/65/14. These designations provide essential information about the tire’s specifications. The first number indicates the tire’s width in millimeters, the second is the aspect ratio that helps determine the sidewall height, and the final number represents the rim diameter. When buying new tires, it’s crucial to provide these details to the seller to ensure you get the right fit.
Every vehicle has specific tire sizes recommended by the manufacturer. You can find these specifications on the tire placard located on the inside of your driver’s door, under the hood, or in your vehicle’s manual. Stick to these specifications when purchasing replacement tires, and don’t let a seller sway you towards something incompatible. Manufacturer recommendations take multiple factors into account; straying from these could affect your vehicle’s handling and risk a blowout.
While some people may prefer larger tires for aesthetics, it often doesn’t translate to improved safety. Manufacturers usually list alternative sizes if the original options are unavailable. The tire placard will detail these alternatives, but if you’re unsure, it’s best to stick to the original size.
Now, let’s talk about determining tire age. This factor is even more critical than size, yet many drivers, and some tire sellers, neglect to check. Visual inspections aren’t enough; depending solely on them can be dangerous.
Why is tire age so important? Just like how age can be a dealbreaker in a relationship, it also affects a tire’s safety and performance. Every tire has an effective lifespan, and when that expires, you’ll be entering a risky zone. A general rule of thumb is to replace any tire over six years old, especially if it’s a quality brand; lesser-quality tires may not last as long.
To determine the age of a tire, look at the sidewall. You’ll find the letters “DOT” followed by a three or four-digit number. If it’s a three-digit number without a triangle sign, it indicates the tire was made in the 1980s, with the first two digits representing the week and the last digit indicating the year within that decade. For example, 341 without a triangle signifies the 34th week of 1981.
If the three-digit number has a triangle, it indicates the tire was produced in the 1990s. A four-digit number means the tire dates from the year 2000 or later. For instance, a tire with 2302 signifies it was manufactured in the 23rd week of 2002.
In summary, staying informed about your vehicle’s tire specifications and age can keep you safe on the road. Don’t let your enthusiasm for aesthetics or a good deal lead you into a dangerous situation. Make safety your priority, and you’ll be better equipped for any journey.
