Tyre Tread and Its Importance in Road Safety

Introduction

When it comes to road safety, many factors come into play, but few are as overlooked as tyre tread. For driving instructors and learners alike, understanding how tyre condition affects grip, handling, and stopping distance is essential. With the UK’s wet and changeable weather, the state of a vehicle’s tyres can be the difference between a safe stop and a dangerous skid.

What Is Tyre Tread and Why Does It Matter?

Tyre tread refers to the grooves and patterns cut into the surface of a tyre. These channels help to displace water, maintain grip on slippery roads, and provide traction in various conditions.

The more worn the tread, the less effective the tyre is at doing its job, especially in rain, snow, or mud. Reduced tread depth increases the risk of aquaplaning, where the tyre rides on top of water instead of the road surface.

UK Law and the Minimum Tread Depth

The legal minimum tread depth in the UK is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre, with visible tread over the remainder. Falling below this could result in:

• A fine of up to £2,500 per tyre
• Three penalty points on the driver’s licence

For new motorists under the New Drivers Act two bald tyres would likely mean a retest. These consequences could be easily avoided through regular checks.

Teaching Learners to Check Their Tyres

Driving instructors should build tyre checks into early lesson routines. Here are simple tools to share:

• The 20p Test: Check link
• Visual Checks: Look for cracks, bulges, or uneven wear.
• Discuss how worn tyres may affect braking in the rain.

Tyres and the Practical Driving Test

While tyre condition isn’t assessed during the driving test itself, it’s part of the “show me, tell me” vehicle safety questions. ADIs should ensure learners can answer confidently:

“Tell me how you’d check the tyres to ensure they have sufficient tread depth and that their general condition is safe to use on the road.”