Posted on Monday 22nd October 2018
Helen Fisher
Staffordshire’s motorists are being encouraged to check their tyres this October as part of national Tyre Safety Month and ahead of winter driving.
The Staffordshire Safer Roads Partnership is supporting Tyre Safe’s campaign to highlight the importance of driving with properly inflated tyres with the right tread depth.
The campaign is also asking drivers to make sure their cars are in good condition for safe driving during the winter months. Advice includes making sure brakes, hand-brake and lights are all working properly, checking the oil level and making sure there’s enough water in the window sprayer.
Speaking on behalf of the Staffordshire Safer Roads Partnership, Helen Fisher, Cabinet Member for Transport and Highways at Staffordshire County Council said:
“Keeping our roads safe remains our top priority and our roads continue to be amongst the safest in the country.
“With the wintery weather due over the next few months, we’re simply reminding drivers of the importance of making sure their vehicles are in good condition and are safe. This includes things like making sure tyres have sufficient thread, and have the correct pressure in them. We’re also asking people to do some basic checks like checking lights are working and making sure there’s enough water in the window sprayer.”
Driving during winter weather can be more tricky and people need to change their behaviour and drive to suit the conditions. Before setting off, people should also make sure their windows are demisted and cleared of any ice and snow.
In poor weather it can also take up to 10 times longer to stop if the roads are slippery so people should slow down, increase the gap between the vehicle in front of them and avoid accelerating and braking harshly. Even when the sun is shining, at this time of year the glare from low sun can make it difficult to see. Keeping sunglasses handy in the car and the inside of the windscreen clean also makes a big difference.
Motorists can also help keep pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists safe by being extra vigilant. They can often be harder to see in poor weather, so putting your lights on can help them see you better.
People should check their tread depth and tyre pressures at least once a month which can be done at most garages or petrol stations. Reputable tyre dealers would also be able to check and advise too.
For more tips on safer winter driving visit Staffs Safer Roads