Highways Agency backs tyre campaign

For the first time ever, the UKs annual tyre safety month is being backed by the Highways Agency.

The campaign which runs throughout October is designed to educate drivers about the importance of checking the depth of their tyres tread. This year, thanks to the backing of the Highways Agency (which is responsible for the management and maintenance of England's strategic roads), it will reach a wider audience than previous initiatives.

The 20p test
The central message of this years campaign is how easy it is for drivers to check their tyres tread depth. They just insert a 20p coin into the main grooves if the rim of the coin is covered by the tread, the tyre has enough tread to be safe and legal.

The law requires a minimum of 1.6mm of tread across the central three-quarters of the tyre, around its entire circumference. Drivers who fail to comply face an increased risk of being involved in an accident, as well as risking a fine of 2500 and three penalty points for each illegal tyre.

Ginny Clarke, director of network services for the Highways Agency, said: The simple 20p test is an essential part of preparing for your journey. By checking that the tyres are still in good condition, drivers are helping to avoid accidents, and the risk of delays to their journey as a result.

Throughout the campaign, as well as raising awareness of the 20p test, many garages and tyre dealers across the UK will be offering free tyre safety checks. These will cover not only the depth of the tread, but also the tyres pressure and condition, which are vital to safety.