Keep close eye on those tyre pressures

IT’S already feeling very autumnal and winter is approaching, as is tyre safety month.
With that in mind, Ring Automotive is calling on drivers to check their tyres and make sure they’re ready for winter, with its challenges.
Ice and snow are obvious winter dangers, but many drivers don’t realise how badly grip levels fall on cold damp roads, too.
To ensure grip is as good as possible, check tyre pressures, tread depths and ensure that the tyres are in good condition generally. Statistics say poorly inflated tyres account for six per cent of fatal accidents.
Whether tyres are over or under-inflated, handling suffers and this is exacerbated by bad weather conditions. 
Correct pressure values can be found on stickers by the driver’s door or fuel flap, or if necessary consult your handbook. Check pressure when tyres are cold,  preferably before making a journey.
It should go without saying that the greater the tread depth the better tyres cope with excess water and snow. While the legal limit on depths is 1.6mm, the Automobile Association recommends 3mm, and at the very least 2mm for winter driving. A car travelling at 50mph with a tread of 1.6mm needs eight metres more to stop than a car with a tread depth of 3mm, in wet conditions this difference would be even greater.  Tyres with less than 3mm of tread are also more susceptible to aquaplaning.   
Keeping a compressor or tyre gauge in the car is the best way to ensure regular checking of tyres before driving. 
To help motorists stay safe this winter, Ring Automotive, has a range of tyre gauges and air compressors.