Without the regular control of condition of tyres, tread depth and pressure, there can be no safe traveling. If the safety argument is not enough, one should know that their bad state may bring financial consequences or even the suspension of vehicle registration certificate.
Tyres are the only element of the vehicle in contact with the road. Their quality and efficiency determine the well-being of drivers and other road users. Unfortunately, many drivers are still unaware of this and hit the road equipped with unsuitable tyres. According to the Polish General Police Headquarters, improper condition of tyres constitutes as much as 25.6%[1] among all technical defects found in cars that were involved in accidents caused by technical malfunction of the vehicle.
Worn tread is one of the most common defects in tyres. The law is clear in this case – the depth of the tread pattern, in the absence of the so-called wear indicators on the tyre should not be less than 1.6 mm[2]. Neglecting this regulation, we risk the suspension of vehicle registration certificate and getting a fine of up to 500 zł, but more importantly – we put ourselves and others in danger. Worn tread makes the vehicle's grip is significantly worse, which makes it easier to slip, and when driving in the rain, aquaplaning may occur, i.e. loss of traction caused by a layer of water, which builds between the wheels of the vehicle and the road surface.
Another offense, which may cost us our vehicle registration certificate or a fine is the lack of identical tyres on one axle. According to the regulations, the vehicle should be equipped with the same tyres on wheels of one axle[3]. This means the same brand, model and size, but also the depth of the tread.
Another important issue is caring for the quality of tyres installed in our car. If we notice any cracks or bumps, it is worth going to an auto shop for control, as riding on them can be dangerous.
– Tyres which suit a given type of a car, driver’s driving habits and the temperature are an investment in road safety and lower running costs. At least once a month, check the tread, assess the overall condition of the tyres and check the tyre pressure - a change of just 0.5 bar in relation to the optimal value extends the braking distance by up to 4 meters and significantly impairs the driveability. Regardless of the regulations in force in a given country, it is always worth caring for a good technical condition of our car, including the condition of tyres – notes Piotr Sarnecki, Director General of Polish Tyre Industry Association (PTIA).
[1] Road accidents in Poland in 2017, Polish Police Headquarters, Road Traffic Office, 2017
[2] § 11, Clause 7, Sub-clause 4 of the Ordinance of the Minister of Infrastructure setting out technical requirements applicable to vehicles as well as the scope of the necessary equipment
[3] § 11, Clause 7, Sub-clause 1 of the Ordinance of the Minister of Infrastructure setting out technical requirements applicable to vehicles as well as the scope of the necessary equipment
Source: Polish Tyre Industry Association