As millions of Britons prepare to hit the roads for festive gatherings and last-minute shopping this December, a leading car expert has issued an urgent safety warning. Tina Newman, a motoring specialist from Just Tyres, is urging all drivers to perform one simple check before setting off to avoid potential disaster and hefty penalties.
The Critical Winter Tyre Check You Must Not Ignore
Tina Newman highlights that December is one of the busiest periods on UK roads. With cold weather, increased traffic, and longer journeys, vehicle tyres are placed under significant strain. A quick pre-journey inspection can be the difference between a safe trip and a catastrophic failure, but only if you know precisely what to look for.
While the minimum legal tread depth in the UK is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre, simply meeting this requirement is not enough for guaranteed safety. Tyres can remain dangerous if they are cracked, exhibit uneven wear, or are simply too old. "Rubber degrades over time, and older tyres can fail suddenly," warns Newman. Such a failure could lead to a blowout or legal consequences.
Understanding the Risks and Legal Penalties
Many drivers mistakenly believe they would notice an underinflated or damaged tyre, but Newman cautions that most issues are not visible until it is too late. Factors like plummeting temperatures and potholes can cause slow leaks, making regular checks essential. She advises checking tyre pressure and tread at least once a month and always before a long drive.
The legal ramifications for neglect are severe. If caught driving with illegal tyres, you face a fine of up to £2,500 per tyre and three penalty points on your licence. Furthermore, if you are involved in an accident with tyres below the legal limit, your insurance provider may refuse or drastically reduce your claim, leaving you personally liable for all damages.
How to Perform the Essential Check in One Minute
You do not need any special equipment or a mechanic to ensure your tyres are road-legal. Tina Newman recommends a straightforward, one-minute test using a 20p coin.
- Insert the coin into the main tread grooves of your tyre.
- If the outer band of the coin is visible, your tread is likely below the 1.6mm legal limit.
- Also look for visible signs of damage such as cuts, bulges, or exposed cords.
Newman also advises motorists to consider their tyre type. Summer tyres harden in cold weather, reducing grip, whereas winter tyres are designed to remain flexible. For a year-round solution, she recommends all-season tyres, which are engineered to handle the unpredictable British weather.
"Before you set off this Christmas, take five minutes to check your tyres," Newman concludes. "They should be properly inflated and not damaged or too old. This is the best gift you'll give yourself this year."
