Warning for Young Drivers: Bald Tyres Could Cost You Your Licence

Young drivers, be aware! Your tyres are not just rubber on the road—they could be the difference between keeping your licence and losing it. Vision Zero South West has highlighted the crucial role tyre safety plays in keeping you and other road users safe.

The Dangers of Bald Tyres

Driving with bald tyres, which have worn tread or low pressure, is a serious offence that could lead to a hefty fine and penalty points on your licence. For new drivers, who have a limit of six points within the first two years, this could result in an automatic ban from the roads.

TyreSafe, a national organisation dedicated to tyre safety, provides a wealth of information on how to keep your tyres in check. From understanding different types of tyres to learning about correct tyre pressure, it’s worth taking a look to stay safe and legal on the road. Find out more here.

Choosing the Right Tyres

Not all tyres are the same, and selecting the wrong type could be dangerous. Standard tyres are often suitable, but other options like winter tyres, run-flat tyres, and those designed for electric vehicles offer specific benefits depending on the driving conditions and car type.

• Winter Tyres: These are designed for cold weather conditions and have special grooves for added grip.
• Run-Flat Tyres: Allow you to drive safely even after a puncture, but should only be used with a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
• 4×4 Tyres: There are also special tyres for 4 x 4 vehicles that spend most of their time driving off-road, that need to have extra grip, toughness and stability.
• Electric Vehicle Tyres: These are built to handle the additional weight and torque of electric cars.

Beware of Part-Worn Tyres

Buying part-worn tyres might seem like a cheaper option, but it’s a false economy and potentially dangerous. Research by TyreSafe and Trading Standards has revealed that many of these tyres are unsafe. They might cost less initially, but they often have less tread depth and need to be replaced sooner, which could lead to fines of up to £2,500 per tyre if they’re found to be illegal. It’s always better to buy new tyres with proper ratings and safety markings.

Tyre Pressure and Maintenance

Maintaining the correct tyre pressure is one of the key factors in tyre safety. All cars manufactured since 2014 are equipped with a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), which alerts drivers if there’s an issue. Make sure to get this system serviced regularly, as sensors can wear out or become damaged by weather conditions.

For more advice on tyre pressure and understanding tyre markings, check out TyreSafe’s guidance.

What to Do in Case of a Puncture

If you notice a puncture while driving or when your car is parked, it’s important to handle it properly. Modern cars often come with emergency repair kits instead of spare tyres, but these should only be used temporarily and when it’s safe to do so. Always get repairs done by a tyre specialist, and consider using a space saver wheel to get to the nearest garage if needed.

Understanding when a tyre can be repaired or when it needs replacing is crucial. If in doubt, visit TyreSafe for more information.

Stay Safe, Stay Legal

Checking your tyres regularly and replacing them when necessary isn’t just about avoiding fines or points—it’s about ensuring your safety on the road. Young drivers are particularly vulnerable to losing their licences due to tyre-related offences, so don’t take the risk. Stay informed and stay TyreSafe!

For more information on tyre safety and advice, visit TyreSafe.