Study reveals the exact date to check your tyres before winter strikes
Winter weather is on the way, and that means our roads could get a little more challenging. New data reveals the perfect time to check your tyres—or even consider switching to winter ones. Confused.com has analysed temperature data in the UK for the last five years and used a machine learning model to predict the next 365 days. They’ve pinpointed the date when we’re likely to see a week of temperatures dipping below 7 degrees.
Here are the specific dates across the UK when temperatures are likely to drop below 7 degrees for more than seven consecutive days:
It’s always important to stay vigilant behind the wheel, especially during the cold winter months. To help drivers prepare, Confused.com’s latest data suggests the dates to ensure your tyres are winter-ready. Stay alert on the roads during these key dates to ensure your tyres are winter-ready:
Scotland: 2nd November 2024
Northern Ireland: 16th November 2024
England: 18th November 2024
Wales: 20th November 2024
Drivers should already be prepping their tyres for winter, as November 2nd is the first key date in the UK for ensuring they are ready for dangerous driving conditions
During the winter weather, roads can be covered in snow, ice, rain, or mud, which doubles stopping distances. Having a tread depth lower than the legal limit can make braking even more difficult for drivers and further increase stopping distances. Planning ahead now can help ensure a safer, smoother season on the road.
What tyres should I use in winter?
Rhydian Jones, motoring expert at Confused.com, points out, “Winter tyres are ideal for colder months due to their deeper grooves and sipes, are designed to provide better braking control in snowy, icy, rainy or muddy conditions. Many Brits use all-season tyres since winter tyres aren’t mandatory.
But it’s essential to ensure your tyres meet at least the legal tread depth limit of 1.6 mm across the central three-quarters.”
What tread depth should my tyres be?
“We encourage everyone to check their tyres regularly, especially as winter approaches. While the minimum legal tread depth is 1.6 mm, tyre and safety experts recommend at least 3 mm for winter driving. New tyres generally have a tread depth between 8 and 9 mm [2]. This highlights how much wear occurs before reaching the legal limit.
“The benefit of winter tyres is that they provide better grip in cold and wet conditions due to their higher silica content. This extra grip should give you better control of the car and shorter stopping distances, which is crucial for driving in challenging winter weather.”
How to check tread depth with only a 20p coin
“While using a tread-depth gauge is the recommended way to check your tyre tread, there are other indicators to consider. One such indicator is the wear bar, also known as a tyre wear indicator (TWI). These markings on the tread show how much tread has worn away. If the TWI markings are level with the tread blocks, it indicates that your tyres have reached the minimum legal limit. When your tyres reach this point, you should consider replacing them.
“Another simple way to check is with a 20p coin. Look at the outer edge of the coin where there’s a band. Insert the 20p into various spots along the main tread of your tyre. If the band is fully hidden, your tyres are above the minimum requirement. If any part of the band is visible, then your tyres are below the legal limit and need attention. While this is a handy trick, it’s not the most accurate method, so it’s worth getting your tyres checked professionally for peace of mind.
“Your yearly MOT check will let you know if your tyres are below the legal limit, but don’t wait a whole year to find out. Regular checks are an easy way to keep yourself safe on the road. If you notice your tyres are below 3mm, think about replacing them. If they’re under 2mm, it’s a good idea to book an appointment soon. And if they drop below 1.6mm, get them sorted out right away and avoid driving—it’s illegal and not safe to drive.”
What will happen if my tyre tread is below 1.6mm?
“If your tyres are below 1.6mm, you’re putting yourself and other drivers at serious risk if you have a braking incident. You’re also breaking the law. You could face a fine of up to £2,500 per tyre, plus three points on your licence per illegal tyre. So, if all four tyres are worn, you’re looking at up to a £10,000 fine and 12 points on your licence.
“For new drivers within two years of passing their test, this would mean an instant licence cancellation. For others, accumulating 12 or more points within a three-year period, known as ‘totting up,’ would result in a six-month driving disqualification.”
Driving tips for icy road conditions this winter
“If there’s a risk of ice on the roads, avoid travel unless necessary. If you must travel, here are some tips: use your brakes gently and only when needed, avoid hard acceleration and harsh steering. Always leave a longer stopping distance between you and the car ahead.
“Accelerate slowly and stick to main roads, as they are more likely to be salted and ice-free. If you encounter black ice, stay calm—don’t brake. Take your foot off the accelerator and steer straight until you pass over the ice.”
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