Sunday , February 16 2025

Winter safety – check your tyres

Are your tyres safe? Tyresafe releases YouTube video warning of aquaplaning danger.

Tyresafe has launched a has new online movie has been launched to educate drivers about the risks associated with aquaplaning, a dangerous phenomenon caused by low tyre tread depth on wet roads which results in the car losing contact with the road surface. Watch the film here.

In the film, a car with minimum legal tyre tread depth can be seen aquaplaning on a flooded road surface, dangerously continuing to travel in a straight line despite the driver turning the steering wheel furiously in an attempt to make the car change direction. Watch the video.

Adequate tread depth is important for safety in wet conditions as the tread grooves help to remove the water from the contact patch between the tyre and the road surface.

As the tyre’s tread depth wears down, its ability to remove water from the road decreases meaning that grip levels are reduced and stopping distances are extended.

In extreme circumstances when the tyre has insufficient tread depth to clear the water properly, increased water pressure causes the tyres to lift on top of the water surface and lose contact with the road surface.

During this dangerous aquaplaning situation any input from the driver such as pressing the brake or turning the steering wheel has no effect on the vehicle, leaving it at an increased risk of being involved in an accident.

Take the 20p test

Current UK law requires car drivers to have at least 1.6mm of tread depth across the central three quarters of their tyres, around their entire circumference.

Drivers failing to comply with these regulations are not only at a greater risk of being involved in an accident, but could also face a fine of up to £2,500 and three penalty points for each illegal tyre.

aquaplaning danger - check your car tyres. 20p test.

Checking the condition of your tyre tread depth can be done quickly and easily by taking the 20p test.

To perform the test, simply place a 20p coin into the main tread grooves of your tyre. If the outer band of the 20p coin is obscured when inserted into your tread, then your tyre is above the legal minimum limit.

Meanwhile if the outer band of the 20p coin is visible, then your tyre tread depth may be dangerously low and should be inspected immediately by a tyre professional.

Drivers unsure of how to perform the 20p test can find out more by visiting www.tyresafe.org or by visiting one of the thousands of workshops offering free tyre safety checks throughout October.

TyreSafe is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of correct tyre maintenance and the dangers of defective and worn tyres.

About Gareth Herincx

Gareth is a versatile journalist, copywriter and digital editor who's worked across the media in newspapers, magazines, TV, teletext, radio and online. After long stints at the BBC, GMTV and ITV, he now specialises in motoring.

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2 comments

  1. Hi a great article once again promoting road safety through good quality tyre advice. eric roberts http://www.pellontyres.co.uk

  2. Great advice – Safety is of the highest priority in the colder months when the road become more dangerous. Winter Tyres are a great investment, which unfortunately too many people overlook.

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