July 2012: Tyre Checks and Wet Weather

The Wet Weather

The meteorological department’s predictions about the dismally damp weather from April to June this year have already been experienced by motorists who have encountered and survived rough driving conditions during rains this year. In spite of such a scenario, Tyresafe, UK’s tyre safety leader, advises the drivers not to be dampened by the wet weather and look at the brighter side of this situation.

Wet Roads and Tyre Safety

Tyresafe recommends getting a thorough check on the tyre tread depth done at such time of the year. This year’s weather has been full of surprises with heavy and unexpected rains in Spring, making it feel more like Autumn.

Tyre safety is one aspect that should never be compromised with, be it whatever time of the year so that the tyres of your vehicles can always deal with wetness on roads.

TyreSafe Recommends

Like every cloud has a silver lining, the clouds this season have it too in the form of valuable advice for gratis from the industry leader TyreSafe.

This company recommends and requests all the drivers, time and again, to carry out the simple 20p tyre tread depth test for tyre safety inspection.

How to Check the Optimal Tyre Tread Depth

The chairman of TyreSafe, Mr. Stuart Jackson insists on reaping rich dividends of this easy test in the form of enhanced safety on rough roads while driving under any weather condition.

All you need to do is push in a 20p coin into the main tyre grooves and check coin visibility.

If the coin’s outer rim is visible, then you must consider visiting a qualified tyre specialist for insufficient tyre tread depth which could result in a potential mishap on a wet road.

Also, motorists must inspect their tyres for any visible anomalies like lumps or cuts and ensure accurate tyre air pressure.

The Importance of Tyre Tread Depth

Sufficient tyre tread depth is inevitable for perfect grip on wet street surface. The tyre tread pattern is designed in such a manner that it removes excess water from the road surface.

If your vehicle doesn’t have required depth of tyre tread, you might face the possibility of aquaplaning, reduced tyre grip on the road and you would need to stop at longer distances.

It is a must to follow these guidelines while travelling under wet conditions and also at any other time of the year. It is in the best interest of fellow citizens, a driver’s family and the driver to ensure protection and safe driving at all times.

Stuart Jackson advocates levying heavy fines for all those who do not conform to the set rules and drive with illegal tyres.

Presently, the law in UK mandates a tread depth of 1.6mm across the tyres’ inner three quarters along the tyre circumference.

For all the drivers who fall short of complying with the laid rules and regulations might invite up to £2,500 in fine and 3 penalty points for every non-compliant tyre.