Wet summers require tread depth, says TyreSafe

Great news for lovers of grey skies and indifferent temperatures! Some experts opine that the overly wet summer we’re having may be the pattern for the coming decade. The Met Office put forward this scenario after a new weather pattern was identified in the North Atlantic, and the prospect of ten more years of wet summer weather has prompted TyreSafe to advise motorists that adequate tyre tread depth is more important than ever.

TyreSafe chairman Stuart Jackson said: “It looks like motorists had better get used to unusually damp summers for another ten years, which means that tyre safety should be given a higher priority than ever. The good news is that it’s incredibly easy to see if you have adequate tread depth just by using a 20p coin. Simply take the coin and insert it into the main grooves of the tyre. When it’s been inserted and if you can see the outer band of the 20p then the tyre may not have sufficient depth and should be checked by a qualified specialist.”

Adequate tread depth is essential for good grip on wet roads as the tread pattern helps to displace water from the road surface. Drivers with insufficient tread depth face a number of hazards including longer stopping distances, less grip and more chance of aquaplaning. Indeed, in wet weather stopping distances will be at least double those required for stopping on dry roads, placing even greater importance on correct tyre maintenance.

“Driving in wet weather is particularly hazardous but a few simple precautions, such as regularly checking your tyres before heading off, and sensible driving including keeping well back from the vehicle in front, can help reduce the risk of an accident,” added Jackson.

UK legislation requires car drivers to have a minimum of 1.6mm of tread depth across the central three quarters of the tyre, around its entire circumference. Those failing to adhere to these regulations face three penalty points and a fine of up to £2,500 for each illegal tyre. To help drivers check the tread on their tyres, TyreSafe has posted a short video on its www.tyresafe.org website that explains what to do. TyreSafe also encourages car owners to visit its Facebook page at www.facebook.com/tyresafeuk and take the 20p pledge.