Tyre Safety

Figures released by Tyresafe show that in 2010, court convictions related to driving on defective tyres in England and Wales had risen to 10,475 motorists, approximately 1,000 more than 2009. With these figures not taking into account matters dealt with by the police at roadside, the severity of the problem can be identified.
 
“Thelatest figures are very worrying indeed and show that the courts take a very dim view of people driving on defective tyres. We are aware that with recent financial pressures, many motorists are delaying the purchase of new tyres, however, as these latest figures show, some are waiting far too long and are risking their own safety and that of other roads users by going beyond the legal minimum standards. Its also shows that the authorities are taking a robust stance against motorists prepared to flout the law, which goes to show that if you drive on illegal tyres, then be prepared to pay the price,” said Stuart Jackson, chairman, TyreSafe.
 
UK law requires car drivers to have a minimum of 1.6mm tread depth across the central three quarters of the tyre, around its entire circumference. Drivers who fail to comply with the regulations face a fine of up to £2,500 and three penalty points.