Apart from snow this winter we seem to have experienced
every type of extreme weather possible, with gale force winds and torrential rain
being the worst. Wet weather increases dangers for plant driving on and off
road and in these conditions it is even more essential to have safe tyres with the right pressure and sufficient tread.
In the last twenty years the quality and effectiveness and
safety of tyres has increased. The reason compulsive tread depths were made a
legal requirement is the increased chance of an accident as tread depth decreases.
Other things affecting tyre pressure:
- Load
- Correct tyre pressure
- State and quality of road or track surface
- Suitability of tyre for the job you are doing
Correct pressures are affected by weather road conditions, road conditions and quality. Overloading can obviously affect the pressure of tyres so make sure you check loads and pressures.
Strong winds cause danger from flying debris and debris lying
unseen on dark roads and tracks. Poor road surface and consequently poor drainage
means more build up of surface water. Made more difficult at night surface
water increases the risk of spray blinding drivers and of cars and for car
drivers driving too fast through standing water could lead to tyres losing
contact with the road, aquaplaning. A
car driver losing control is a hazard for everyone.
Correct tyres with the correct pressure, will ensure if you
have to break suddenly or face challenging conditions, increase your safety.
driver aquaplaning. Fog reduces visibility and combined with rain as we have
seen this winter increases all these hazards.
