Kent Drivers Warned: Check Your Tyres Now or Risk a £2,500 Fine!
Motorists in Kent are being urged to give their tyres a thorough once-over as National Tyre Safety Week kicks off on Monday, 5 October 2020. The campaign aims to shine a spotlight on the dangers of faulty tyres and encourage drivers to keep their wheels roadworthy before setting off.
Don’t Get Caught Out: Check Pressure, Tread, and Condition
This year, tyre experts TyreSafe are pushing three key checks: tyre pressure, condition, and tread depth. They remind drivers to use an accurate pressure gauge and compare readings with the car owner’s manual or fuel cap instructions.
Watch out for lumps, bumps, cuts, or cracks on your tyres — these can signal internal damage and boost the risk of tyre failure. If you spot anything dodgy, get a pro to have a look immediately.
Not got a gauge? No worries. Use a 20p coin to check tread depth. Slot it into the main grooves of the tyre—if the coin’s outer border disappears, your tread is above the legal limit.
Safety Chief Issues Stark Warning to Drivers and Bikers
“It is crucial motorists get into the habit of checking their vehicles for defects,” said Chief Inspector Rhiannan Pepper. “A quick safety check could save you from a crash or a fine.” “Motorcyclists should be extra vigilant – good tyres improve safety when accelerating, braking, and taking corners.” “Looking after your tyres not only keeps you safe but could save you cash on costly repairs down the line.”
Don’t Risk It: Penalties for Faulty Tyres
Ignoring tyre safety isn’t just reckless – it’s expensive. Drivers caught with illegal tyres face fines up to £2,500 and three penalty points per tyre. So, before you hit the road, give those tyres a proper check!