Drivers are being urged to do an easy test with a 20p coin to avoid being hit with £10,000 fines. Tyre tread depth is something drivers may not think about, but it’s essential for stability and grip on the roads and is particularly important for braking.
Tyres with a low tread depth could increase the stopping distance and cause accidents. The minimum tread depth is 1.6mm, and this requirement applies to the central three-quarters of the tyre’s width and must be consistent around the entire circumference of the tyre. Under the Road Traffic Act, it’s illegal to drive with a lower tread depth, and drivers caught with illegal tyres could face a fine of £2,500 and three penalty points per tyre.
Those with all four tyres under the recommended tread could face fines up to £10,000 and 12 points on their licence, resulting in a ban.
But there is a simple way to check if your tyres meet the legal requirements, and it’s all thanks to a 20p coin. Experts at LeaseLoco.com have explained that by simply laying a 20p coin in the groove of the tyre, you can easily identify if you have a problem.
John Wilmot, CEO of car leasing comparison site LeaseLoco.com, said: “Tyre tread depth is important because it is what helps your tyres grip to the road properly and provides stability.
“If it is low, it can increase stopping distance which can ultimately lead to road accidents. A quick and easy way to check your tyres is by using the 20p hack.
“Simply place a 20p coin into the grooves of the tyre, if the outer ring on the coin disappears, then your tyres meet the requirement of being 1.6mm. However, if you can see the ring, you’ll need to get these replaced before hitting the road.”
The expert further detailed that driving with tyres that don’t meet the 1.6mm requirement is illegal and to avoid this and to ensure you’ll have a safe journey, carry out the 20p hack on all four of your tyres “as soon as you can.”
Drivers could also be fined for having a restricted view from the windscreen. Drivers are being urged to clear their windows of bugs and pollen to avoid breaking the Highway Code.
Motorists could be hit with a £1,000 fine if they are believed to have restricted visibility, and bugs, pollen, and other pests could alter their view.
The Highway Code states that windscreens and windows must be kept clean and free from obstructions to vision, and motorists who do not have a full view of the road ahead can be fined up to £1,000.