Tyre Groups Highlight Need for Tyre Care in Severe Weather

With wild weather forecast for the UK this week, both TyreSafe and independent tyre fitting network ProTyre have urged motorists to pay special attention to their tyres. “The latest findings from our retail tyre centres and confirmed by TyreSafe, the UK’s leading tyre safety organisation, have revealed that almost a quarter of cars on the road are driving on defective tyres which presents a major risk as standing water builds up on the roads significantly reducing levels of grip and increasing the risk of skidding and the chance of an accident,“ commented Phil Brookes of ProTyre. He added “It is therefore imperative that drivers spend a few minutes checking their tyres before setting off on their journey. It could make all the difference.”

TyreSafe and ProTyre recommend motorists undertake a number of simple tyre safety checks to ensure that their tyres are safe before starting their journey. ProTyre’s advice is given below:

1. Check and adjust the tyre pressure in each tyre, including the spare (if fitted), as recommended in the manufacturer’s handbook.
Why? Correctly inflated tyres reduce stopping distances, increase the level of grip, lead to improved fuel consumption and a reduction in CO2 emissions.

2. Remove stones and other foreign objects from within the tread.
Why? Foreign objects stuck in the tread effect the braking and handling characteristics of your car, especially on surfaces where standing water is present.

3. Check that each tyre has at least 1.6mm of tread across three quarters of the width of the tyre.
Why? Insufficient tread greatly increases stopping distances and the risk of skidding. The potential penalties for having a tyre with tread depth under the legal minimum are 3 points on your driving licence and a fine of up to £2,500.

4. Clean dirt from around valves and ensure valve caps are fitted.
Why? Valve caps are designed to protect the valve from potential damage and prevent air leaking from the tyre.

5. Check for un-even tyre wear to ensure wheel alignment and balancing are correct.
Why? Misaligned and unbalanced tyres can cause vibrations and increase the chance of skidding.

TyreSafe adds that if tyres need replacing, they should be replaced in two’s or all four.