Drivers are being warned over a so-called 20p rule that can prevent a driving ban. Motorists who fail to adhere to the 20p tip risk a possible £10,000 fine and having their licence revoked.
What is the 20p Rule?
GAP insurance provider ALA Insurance has urged motorists to perform a simple tyre check using a 20p coin. By inserting the coin into the tyre tread grooves, drivers can quickly assess whether the tread depth meets the legal minimum of 1.6mm. If the outer band of the coin is visible, the tyres may be unsafe and illegal.
Why This Check Matters
Aimee Anderson, spokesperson for ALA Insurance, said: “With a mini heatwave predicted across much of the UK over the bank holiday, we can expect that roads will face extreme levels of traffic, particularly during peak times. Ideally, you should check your tyres for general maintenance once a month, but definitely before undertaking a long drive.”
Drivers who ignore the dangers could face fines of up to £10,000 and risk having their licence revoked. According to the RAC, motorists should inspect their tyre tread at least once a fortnight and before long trips.
RAC Advice on Tyre Safety
The RAC says: “The tyres are the only contact point between your vehicle and the road. If your tyres are past their best, then the safety of your vehicle will be compromised. Driving a car with bald tyres can risk a fine of £2,500 and three penalty points - and that's per tyre, too. If all four tyres are worn below the legal limit, you could potentially be summoned to court, lose your licence and face a £10,000 fine.”
The RAC added: “Tests by UK technical organisation MIRA found that, once tyres are below 3mm, stopping distances increase dramatically. The difference in wet braking distance between a tyre worn to 3mm and one worn to 1.6mm can be as much as 44%. Worn tyres are particularly dangerous in the wet because a tyre's tread helps disperse water away from the contact patch between tyre and road. If there's less tread depth, less water can be shifted, increasing the risk of aquaplaning and losing grip.”
How to Perform the 20p Check
To check your tyres, simply take a 20p coin and insert it into the main tread grooves across the tyre. If the outer band of the coin is visible, your tyre tread may be below the legal limit. Repeat this check in several places around each tyre and on all four tyres. Regular checks can help avoid costly fines and keep you safe on the road.
