The Highway Code warns drivers that tyres must be correctly inflated to the vehicle manufacturers specification for the load being carried. Tyres should also be free from certain cuts and other defects, with additional information being found in the vehicle’s handbook or data.
In addition to this, the legal tread depth must be a minimum of 1.6 mm across the middle of the tyre.
Despite this, most tyre and car safety experts recommend changing your tyres if the tread dips below 3mm.
When it’s 1.6mm, the required braking distance on a wet road is 44 percent more than it is with 3mm of tread, giving motorists significantly less grip.
Not maintaining the correct tyre pressure can also prove dangerous, sometimes resulting in blowouts, so it’s always a good idea to regularly check the tyres’ pressure, too.
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It can also invalidate your car insurance, which can lead to a maximum of six penalty points and a variable fine, as well as fees for retrieving your vehicle from a car pound.
When driving with tyres that are dangerous because they’re worn or bald, road users could be prosecuted for using a vehicle in a dangerous condition.
Richard Bruce, Motoring Director of Halfords, advises drivers to be careful this winter with adverse weather expected.
He said: “Tyres are another part of the car that can be impacted by the cold weather, so give yours a good check to make sure they are well inflated with good tread.
“The minimum tread depth is 1.6mm and as well as being a safety risk you could incur a hefty fine if they don’t meet the minimum requirements.
“For peace of mind, drivers can get their vehicle checked for free by Halfords’ experts or can book a full 10 Point Winter Car Health Check for just £15.
“Lastly, if you’re worried that the weather conditions are too dangerous, or don’t feel that you’re fit to drive, it’s always best to find an alternative.”
When driving with a low tyre tread, motorists are more at risk of accidents during the winter.
With this, drivers will have less grip on wet, icy and snowy roads, longer stopping distances and a greater risk of aquaplaning.
Drivers also need to be aware of two other specific requirements to be able to drive safely.
Tyres must be fit for purpose and be free from any defects, meaning tyres must not have any lumps or bulges, a cut or tear bigger than 25mm or 10 percent of the width of the tyre.
Tyres must be inflated to the right pressure, as recommended by both the vehicle manufacturer and the tyre manufacturer.
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