Photo Credit: Idiolector via Compfight cc

Today I’m welcoming the team at Point S to the blog to talk about the important issue of tyres. OK, so it might not be the most exciting of subjects, but did you know that the tyres on your car are an ESSENTIAL part of your car safety? Of course you did. Well read on to find out how your tyres could be keeping your family safe next time you drive somewhere…

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When is the last time you checked your tyres? Be honest, it probably wasn’t that recently. A car’s tyres are, of course, an essential part of the driving system, but you should never underestimate the significant part they play in road safety. Most of us mums wouldn’t dream of driving off on a journey without strapping the kids in with a suitable and age-appropriate booster seat. We wouldn’t think of heading out on the road without wearing a seatbelt ourselves, would we?

But when it comes to the condition of our car’s tyres there can be a bit of a problem. If you have not checked yours for a while, then perhaps it is time you do so today.

Tyres as a Safety System

The traction of a car’s tyres is not simply there to transfer the energy from the engine to the road, although this is an important function. All mass-produced cars have to be tested these days to demonstrate they can function safely in a lot of different weather conditions. This means the tyres that are fitted need to be suited to the size and weight of the vehicle.

There must also be a specified amount of air pumped into each wheel so that the tyre can function at its best. With the right tyres under the correct level of pressure, traction is improved. This helps with fuel efficiency, but more crucially – in terms of safety – it allows the driver to stop the car rapidly when the brakes are applied.

Because the tyres of your car have grooves – also known as tread – more grip is maintained on the road. This level of grip, which comes from the gouged lines that run around the tyre, helps the car to corner without spinning off, as well as reducing the stopping distance when emergency braking. In wet weather, the tread also disperses water underneath the wheel, so the chances of aquaplaning and subsequently skidding are reduced.

Which Tyres Are Best?

Each car maker will specify the size of tyre needed for your model of car. To keep you and your family safe when on the road, always adhere to this specification and avoid buying part-worn tyres. Although they may be legal, they are not always the safest option.

Economy tyres can seem like a good option, but instead consider premium tyres from an expert seller, such as Point S. These can last longer, saving your money in the long run, but they also have better safety functions, too. This will help you to brake, corner and maintain control in wet conditions – something that is highly desired by nearly all parents.

What about Snow?

If you need to travel with your family in snowy conditions, stick to the main roads which have been gritted, if you have normal tyres. If you are travelling somewhere more remote, then consider adding snow chains to your tyres to improve their traction. Alternatively, ask your tyre dealer about winter tyres, an increasingly popular choice among safety-conscious motorists.

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This is a commissioned post written by Point S. For more information please see my disclosure page. 

The post Let’s talk about tyres (and not the one around my middle) appeared first on Mother's Always Right.