Motorists planning to make a lengthy journey in their car have been urged to make two checks before getting behind the wheel to avoid several significant issues, including a huge fine. Many families across the UK see the Easter weekend as the ideal time to take to the roads to catch up with loved ones or visit another part of the country.
However, before setting off or returning home, Drew Chapman, Bridgestone North Consumer Sales Director, urged all drivers to make sure that their tyres are in good condition. He advised: “We want everyone to enjoy their Easter travel plans while feeling confident and safe behind the wheel. That’s what really matters. Everyone can play their part in making roads safer, and the beauty is that this can be achieved in a matter of a few minutes by making some straightforward tyre checks.”
First, Bridgestone urged motorists to make sure that their tyres have plenty of tread, which can be done in a matter of seconds with a tyre depth tester or a 20p coin.
In order to check whether their vehicle’s tyres have more than the legal limit of 1.6mm, drivers should place the coin into the grooves and check to see whether the outer band is still visible.
If the coin’s band can still be seen, drivers must get a replacement fitted to avoid a fine of up to £2,500 and three points on their licence for each affected tyre.
Bridgestone also urged drivers to make sure that their tyres have plenty of pressure in them before setting off on long road trips, which can result in a number of issues including worse fuel economy and increased wear.
Motorists who are travelling at high-speed in a vehicle with underinflated tyres could also encounter unpredictable handling characteristics, longer braking distances, and a much higher risk of a blowout, which would likely result in a loss of control.
As a result, it is a good idea to check the pressures with an accurate gauge when the tyres are cold and use an air pump to top them up to the levels recommended by the manufacturer.
