Should you get winter tyres?
28th December 2011
The roads are becoming icier, the air is getting colder and some parts of the country have already reported snowfall. It’s THAT time of year again when you find yourself asking – do I need winter tyres?
According to research from Manheim Auctions, less than 5% of motorists are planning on buying winter tyres this year. However, after the last few years of winter weather chaos, many are concerned as to whether or not they should buy them.
The number one reason why drivers have traditionally steered clear of winter tyres is because of the cost. The research found that 41% of them said they could not afford them this year, 28% of drivers claimed that they didn’t think that the weather would be that bad and a further 16% didn’t really know what winter tyres are.
The survey also found that 92% of motorists drive differently in the snow. 63% of those surveyed didn’t believe their driving skills were good enough to handle all weather conditions.
Regardless of getting winter tyres or not, it is worth noting that the legal tread depth is 1.6 mm. Tyre maintenance, pressure and air may also need to be checked in preparation for the winter.
Craig Mailey, Marketing Director, Manheim Auctions said; “Winter tyres are an investment in safety. They will help to keep you on the move and on the road, reduce the risk of accidents and can be used over several winters”.
It could be important to prepare your vehicle for winter, otherwise you could be at risk of breaking down.
Breaking down is often a stressful and difficult experience, yet breaking down during the winter months could add further pressure to your situation, especially if you are travelling home for Christmas.
Breakdown insurance cover could be ideal as it may be extremely expensive to call out a recovery van and you could end up waiting even longer for assistance.
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