Motor expert’s ‘life-saving’ tyre check to do before driving in Storm Ciarán

11/01/2023

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Experts at UK auto group BigWantsYourCar.com have shared their top tips for motorists to safe on the road as Storm Ciarán sweeps across the UK.

They have reiterated that safety is key when driving – especially during a storm. Adverse weather conditions like Storm Ciarán can create major risks on the road if you’re not careful, but there are some simple ways to keep yourself safer.

These including make sure you lower your speed, being prepared for dangerous conditions and doing an essential tyre check beforehand.

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Check out the tips below to help stay safe when driving in the storm.

1. Be prepared

The experts said: “Before hitting the road, check the weather forecast and road conditions. If conditions are severe, think about how necessary the trip is, and whether it can be postponed.

“You should also consider keeping an emergency kit in your car when going out in a storm. Items like blankets, flashlights, non-perishable food, and a first-aid kit can be a lifesaver if you end up stuck somewhere.”

2. Slow down

“Reduced visibility and slippery roads can make driving in a storm treacherous, so be as cautious as possible," said the expert.

They also recommend leaving extra space between you and cars in front so you have more time to react.

3. Maintain your tyres

Speaking on tyre safety, Peter Waddell, car expert and CEO of BigWantsYourCar, said: “Properly maintained tyres are your best friends when it comes to driving in a storm. Check your tyre tread and pressure regularly, and make sure they're in top condition. This will give you the traction you need to drive through slippery roads safely.

“For a quick test of your tyre depth, get a 20p coin and place it in the main tread grooves of your tyre. If the tyre covers most of that outer edge of the coin, then it is above the legal depth limit. If the outer edge is mostly visible, then your tyres don’t have enough tread depth, and will need replacing as soon as possible.

He also recommend not going out on the road with tyres in poor condition during wet conditions, as they won’t be able to displace water enough, resulting in ‘aquaplaning’ and a loss of control over your car.

4. Don’t drive unless you need to

It is always better to be safe than sorry when driving in a storm. The experts said: "If the conditions become too severe, find a safe place to pull over and wait for the worst to pass. Your safety and that of other drivers is worth more than any appointment or deadline."

Motoring
Driving
UK Weather

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