TYRE SAFETY
Are your tyres legal?
Although the legal minimum tread depth is only 1.6mm, independent research from the Motor Industry Research Association (MIRA) shows that tyres with 3mm of tread have an average 25% better performance than those at 1.6mm - which represents an extra 8 metres stopping distance in wet conditions.
That’s why it’s important to check your tyres regularly to ensure your safety, the safety of your family or other passengers and other road users. The easiest way is to insert a 20p coin into the lowest tread depth of your tyres. If you can't see the outer rim around the edge of the coin, then your tyre is safe and has a minimum of 3mm tread depth. If you CAN see the rim then your tyre tread is less than 3mm and should be checked by a professional. Call in to Smith’s Tyres at Lochthorn, Dumfries (behind the Lochar Inn / opposite the old Gates Factory) and we’ll be happy to check them for you.
Stopping distances at 50mph in wet conditions with a new tyre (8mm tread) is six car lengths. That distance increases to 7 car lenghts with 3mm of tread left and 9 car lengths with 1.6mm of tread.
Your tyres should also be properly inflated for maximum grip to the road surface, lower emissions and greater fuel efficiency - check you car’s handbook for the recommended tyre pressures for your car.
