Motorists Warned to Check Tyre Tread or Risk £2,500 Fine This Winter

As temperatures drop across Britain, thousands of drivers risk significant fines by neglecting one crucial part of their vehicle: the tyres. Beyond just the occasional wear and tear, ensuring your tyres comply with legal standards is essential to stay safe and avoid costly penalties.

Tina Newman, a motoring expert from Just Tyres—one of Britain’s leading independent tyre specialists—warns that a quick glance isn’t enough to verify your tyres are roadworthy, especially as winter conditions set in. Her advice is clear: don’t overlook tyre tread depth.

While many drivers focus on visible damage or deflation, they often forget that tread depth is where most fines occur. British law requires a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre. However, tyres can wear unevenly, particularly along the inner edges, meaning your tyre might look fine at first glance but actually be illegal.

Driving with illegal tyres could result in fines of up to £2,500 per tyre and three penalty points. More worryingly, in the event of an accident, insurers may refuse or reduce claims if your tyres don’t meet legal standards, as your vehicle would be considered unroadworthy.

The good news? Checking your tyres is quick, simple, and requires no special tools or mechanic. It takes under a minute and could save you thousands in fines and repairs.

Winter’s cold and wet conditions cause rubber to harden and grip to lessen. Tyres with shallow tread struggle to disperse water, which increases the risk of aquaplaning and extends braking distances.

Tina sums it up: “Spare a few minutes to check your tyres—you can protect yourself from big fines and stay safe on icy roads.”

If you want extra peace of mind, Just Tyres offers expert advice, tyre fitting, and free safety inspections at their nationwide branches. You can drop by anytime for a free check—no appointment needed.