According to Highways England, only one in six drivers check their tyres before setting off on a long journey. A third confessed that they’re not confident checking their tyre pressure. Car Insurance Expert at Confused.com Alex Kindred says:
“As people across the UK continue to pack up their cars and go on staycations before the summer is over, it’s important to remember to check our tyres are in good condition before setting off on a journey to avoid accidents and fines.
“The laws around tyre maintenance are strict. You need to ensure that the tyres are the right type and size for your car, they should have a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm, but try not to let them fall below about 3mm to be safe, and all tyres should be inflated to their recommended pressure.
“If your tyres are found to be illegal, you could be hit with a fine of £2,500 per tyre and get three points on your licence. Unroadworthy tyres could also risk your safety, the safety of others and any car insurance claim you need to make being invalidated.
“Regular maintenance could save you trouble down the line. Take a good look around each of the tyres and make sure that there aren’t any cuts, tears or bulges. The easiest way to measure tread depth is with a 20p; place a 20p coin in the grooves of the tyre and if the rim of the coin disappears, your tyres should have enough tread depth. And you’ll need a gauge to check the tyre pressure, but if you’re not sure how to use it and want to make sure your tyres are in good nick before your trip, our top tips for tyre maintenance will make things clearer.”
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