Convictions for defective tyres increase in the UK
New data has revealed that there were 5,662 convictions for defective tyres in the UK last year.
The provisional Criminal Justice System statistics highlights the risk motorists are taking by not taking care of their tyres.
This comes after Tyresafe revealed that over the past five years poorly maintained tyres have caused an average of 152 road deaths and serious injuries each year, while 75% of tyre defects in fatal collisions are due to a basic lack on maintenance.
James Harding of online tyre retailer Blackcircles said: “For car tyres, the current UK law states that the minimum tread depth is 1.6mm across 75% of the central section of the tyre. The entire circumference of the tyre must adhere to this rule for it to be road-legal.
“A good way to check your tyre tread depth is by taking a 20p coin and placing it between the main grooves of the tyre. If you can see the outer band of the coin, the tyre may have insufficient tread. It is always advisable to check several spots in the circumference of your tyre.
“Alternatively, tyre gauges are a good way of accurately measuring a tyre’s depth. Take your gauge and insert the depth finder between the grooves. The gauge should provide a readout indicating the exact tread depth.
“When caught driving on worn, illegal tyres, you will likely receive a £2,500 fine and three points on your licence. This is the case for each unlawful tyre. If you are driving with insufficient tread depth on your tyres, the braking, handling, and stability of the tyres are compromised, increasing the risk of an accident.”
