Every October in the UK, motorists are reminded of one of the most critical — yet often overlooked — components of vehicle safety: the tyres. The “Tyre Safety Month” campaigns are not just symbolic. They highlight a stark truth: many tyre-related incidents result from neglect, not dramatic failure. This is a lesson worth importing into Spain too.
According to TyreSafe, more than 51,500 breakdowns in 2023 were directly attributed to tyre defects — a 14% increase year on year. In fatal crashes linked to tyre problems, 75% stem from lack of maintenance. These figures underline that a worn tread, underinflation, or unnoticed damage can prove fatal, especially when paired with autumn and winter weather.
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Why tyres matter more when the seasons change
As temperatures drop and rain becomes more frequent, the grip of your tyres weakens. Braking distances increase, and water builds up under worn tread, raising the risk of aquaplaning. Research on tyre abrasion shows that tyres can lose 0.8–1.4 mm of tread per 10,000 kilometres depending on driving conditions. JRC Publications Over time, what seems like gradual wear can push a tyre from safe to illegal.
In the UK, a sizeable proportion of tyres are replaced before they fall below 3 mm of tread — partly in reaction to changing EU safety regulations. The goal is to promote safer tyre performance in wet conditions, where grip is crucial.
Make tyre checks your routine
You don’t need to be a mechanic. A few minutes per month can make all the difference. Check for:
- Correct inflation pressure (adjust for load and temperature)
- Even tread wear, cuts, bulges, or embedded objects
- Condition of sidewalls and no cracks
- Presence of a spare, or repair kit, if applicable
Bridging to Spain
Here in Spain, the changing seasons bring new risks: early morning damp roads, sudden showers, and shifting temperatures. Maintaining properly inflated tyres gives you one of the greatest safety margins possible on the road.
If you’d rather not check them yourself, visit a trusted garage and request a “tyre health check” — it’s a small investment for peace of mind.
In short: tyres are not just wheels — they’re your final point of contact with the road. Treat them accordingly, and through the gloom of autumn and winter, they’ll keep you rolling safely.
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