For Bengalis, Eid means going off to our ancestral homes. While many take boats and trains, quite a significant number opt to take the road, notorious for accidents around this time of the year. Besides the brakes, the most important aspect of your vehicle's safety on highways has to be tyres.

Amzad Khan, Managing Director of Swan International, importer of MAXXIS and CST tires said "Every piece of tyre has its own set of maintenance regulation and life span, but people in our country are hardly aware of those. If you follow those regulations you can expand the life cycle of a tyre by 2 - 4 months, which means efficiency. By taking some simple steps, I believe accidents can be minimized by a good percentage."

Most accidents occur as a result of a high speed tyre blowout. Blowouts happen mainly due to tyre wear. Ensuring an even wear throughout the life of a tyre is important.

Firstly, have the manufacturer suggested tyre pressure in your vehicle. Running constant low pressure will wear out the edges, while having high pressure will eat away the middle.

Secondly, you must have the right wheel alignment, camber/ caster adjustment and balanced wheel - an even spread of pressure to all your tyres will reduce the risk of high speed blowouts. 

Lastly, if the wear has left your vehicle's tyres with minimum tread, replace them. While your wallet is still bulging with the festival bonus you got recently, invest in a set of tyres.

It is important to get your tyres checked by a professional at any workshop or tyre shop. Check whether there are any miniscule leaks in your tyre or valve that might leave you stranded.

Before you set out, make sure you have a full set - jack, wheel wrench, and preferably a full size spare wheel. Drive safe and happy holidays.