Tyre Safety

What Is the Function of a Tyre's Tread Grooves?

Tyre tread grooves disperse water away from the tyre's contact patch when roads are wet.
If a tyre has insufficient tread depth, this ability is compromised, which can cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle.
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Why Is Sufficient Tread Depth Essential?

When tyres can’t effectively disperse water:

• They may become separated from the road surface.
• This leads to aquaplaning (or hydroplaning), where the tyre loses contact with the road.
• As a result, the tyre can’t transmit steering, braking, or drive forces.

Standing water reduces the tyre's contact patch.
In extreme conditions, this can lead to aquaplaning.
The tread depth determines how much grip the tyre can maintain in wet conditions.
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What Is the Normal Tread Depth?

• New passenger car tyres usually have a tread depth of around 8.0mm.
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How Do I Check Tread Depth?

• All tyres have tread wear indicators built into the tread grooves.
• When worn down to these markers (anywhere across the tyre), the tyre should be replaced.
• Be sure to check the entire tread area, including the inner edges of the tyre.
  
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Safe Driving Tips for Extreme Weather

Heavy Rain

• Even with good tread, aquaplaning can occur due to heavy water volume.
• Reduce speed and increase braking distance.

First Rain After a Dry Spell

• Road surfaces become very slippery after the first rain following a long dry period.
• Exercise extra caution and allow for longer braking distances.

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