How’s My Driving? - Safe Driving Blog Tips
This Tyre Safety Month, the message is a simple one...’what’s stopping you?’
A question which TyreSafe has used to not only remind drivers of the importance of tyre checks, but also carries a literal message.
Have you ever checked the tread on your tyres?
Research suggests that one-in-five drivers have never checked, and this number rises to a one-in-three among young drivers!
Do you know how to check your tyres?
It’s surprising how many people aren’t sure of the correct way to check their tyres, here is a basic check you can complete in minutes:
ACT
- Air Pressure – did you know that the correct tyre pressures for your tyres are shown on a sticker on the inside of the driver's door, filler cap or in the owner’s manual? If you are unsure, visit a local mechanic or a petrol station to check your tyre pressures are correct. Under or over inflated tyres can distort the shape of the tire, leading to decreased traction and increased wear and tear.
- Condition – if stones or other objects caught between grooves in the tread can be removed without damaging the tyre, drivers are advised to do so. Bulges, cracks, cuts and embedded objects are cause for concern and should be checked by a professional.
- Tread – if you don’t have access to an accurate tread depth gauge, a 20p coin can be used to see if your tyres’ tread depths are approaching the 1.6mm minimum limit. Insert the 20p at several points across and around each tyre. If you can see the coin’s outer rim at any point the tyre may be illegal. If in doubt, it’s always best to seek the advice of a mechanic or car garage.
Stuart Jackson, TyreSafe chair, said: “There really is no excuse for ignoring tyre safety – you’ll help keep yourself, your passengers and other road users safe, particularly as the winter months and more challenging driving conditions approach.”
So, what’s stopping you?
01 October 2021