Motorists Urged to Check Tyre Tread as Autumn Rain Hits UK Roads

With summer now behind us and heavy rainfall forecast across the UK this week, drivers are being urged to check the tread depth on their tyres to stay safe – and to avoid costly fines.

Adam Jones, Legal Expert at HD Claims, warns that many motorists overlook the importance of tyre checks after the summer months, putting themselves and other road users at risk when wetter conditions return.

“Worn tyres drastically increase stopping distances on wet roads, raising the risk of skidding and aquaplaning. At this time of year, when sudden downpours can turn a journey dangerous in seconds, tyre safety is critical,” says Jones.

The Law on Tyre Tread

• The legal minimum tread depth in the UK is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre.
• Police carry out roadside checks, and if tyres fall below this limit, drivers face a fine of up to £2,500 per tyre and three penalty points on their licence.
• If all four tyres are found to be illegal, that could mean a £10,000 fine and 12 penalty points, which is enough to result in a driving ban.

Why Check Now

• Tyres naturally wear down more quickly in summer due to hot road surfaces and long motorway drives.
• Heavy autumn rain combined with worn tyres significantly increases braking distances – by up to 44% in some cases.
• Road safety charities highlight that defective tyres are a contributing factor in thousands of accidents each year.

Adam Jones, legal expert from HD claims adds:

“Drivers often only think about winter tyres when the first frost arrives, but September’s rain can be just as dangerous if your tread depth isn’t up to scratch. A simple 20p coin test can give peace of mind – if you can see the border of the coin when placed in the tread, your tyres may be below the legal limit.”

HD Claims is urging motorists to carry out routine checks this week to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy before autumn conditions worsen