2016 saw in excess of 10,000 British drivers punished for driving with defective tyres. The accumulative total in fines exceeded £27m, with a maximum of £2.5k per balding tyre, risking a £10,000 fine if caught with all tyres with a tread depth below the legal limit of 1.6mm. As well as enormous fines you will also have three points added to your licence. 9,000 drivers were handed penalty points on their license in 2016 for tyre related offences.
In the last 12 months 2.5 million cars failed their MOT test due to tyres not meeting the standard legal requirements. More than a third of motorists are actually unaware that they are driving illegally with 35% admitting that they didn’t know their tyres had surpassed the permitted minimum tread depth.
Driving with tyres that are more than 5 years old, have signs of cracking on the sidewalls or have a tyre tread less than 1.6mm is very dangerous as the handling of the car isn’t as effective, due to less grip, especially in bad whether such as snow or rain. Regularly checking your tyres will help to avoid the risks and dangers associated with unsafe tyres. Of the 2,000 UK adults polled by Confused.com, 28% said a friend or relative informed them that their tyres needed to be replaced.
Approximately 9000 drivers were handed penalty points in 2016 for a ‘CU30’ conviction.
This shows the importance of having your tyres changed if they are deemed unsafe to drive. Although it may seem like a hassle and new tyres can be relatively expensive, it’s better than the alternative which is being fined and risking points being added to your license.
WHEN SHOULD I CHANGE MY TYRES?
- If the tyre is four or more years old then you should check for cracking on the sidewalls.
- Replacements are needed if the tread depth is less than 1.6mm.
- Punctured tyres can be repaired but drivers should replace the tyre if another puncture occurs.
A CU30 offence can also increase your insurance premium considerably, even as much as 10%. Failing to regularly check your car tyres for any damages could lead to extensive unnecessary costs.
Some insurance companies will not cover you if you have motoring convictions, here at Connect Insurance we will still cover drivers even if they have previously received a CU30 offence. If you would be interested in a quotation, do not hesitate to enquire hereor ring us on 01782 280280.
Sources: The Daily Mail: Figures Reveal 11,000 drivers caught with unsafe tyres.