Essential parts of a vehicle, tires are the only elements that connect your vehicle to the road. Keeping them in good condition therefore ensures optimal grip in the event of emergency braking to guarantee your safety. Current wife returns to the risks of driving with slick tires and enlightens you on possible sanctions in the event of control by the police.
What is a slick tire?
A tire is considered smooth, that is to say worn, when the depth of its grooves is less than 1.6 mm over the entire circumference and over ¾ of the width of the tread, according to thearticle R431-14-1 of the Highway Code.
Smooth tire: 4th class fine
L’article R312-1 of the Highway Code informs users that they are prohibited from driving their vehicle if the tires no longer have tread, that is to say if they are smooth, or even if a tear is present on the sidewalls or on the tread. If one of the tires of a vehicle in circulation is smooth or has tears, then the driver of the vehicle will be fined. 4th class finewhich includes in particular a fixed fine of €135. This fine can be reduced to €90 if the offender pays their fine within 3 days, or increased to €375 without payment after 45 days. The increase can go up to 750 € maximum. The police may also require the vehicle to be immobilized and impounded.
Safety risks caused by slick tires
Besides the fact that tires are essential elements for a vehicle to be able to move and provide essential functions. For the safety of the driver and his passengers, it is therefore important not to neglect them. A tire in poor condition or a smooth tire can cause serious accidents, including loss of grip leading to skidding and extended braking distances. Additionally, in rainy weather, water cannot be evacuated through the tread tread channels. When driving with a smooth tire the risk of aquaplaning and loss of vehicle control is increased. The probability of puncturing also increases.
How to check the wear of your tires?
To drive safely, regularly check the condition of the tires is necessary. The control covers several points.
The depth of sculpture
It must be 1.6 mm minimum. To check the depth you can examine the wear indicators present in the tire grooves. When the tire wear indicator and the tread wear level are at the same level, it is essential to replace the tire with a new tire.
The condition of the flank
This is the side part of the tire. The side must be intact, that is to say without tears, cuts or cracks. Certain impacts with the pavement or stones, for example, can damage the sidewall of the tire. In the event of tearing or deformation, the tire must also be changed.
Tire inflation
Tire inflation pressure plays a role in their efficiency and longevity. An underinflated tire wears out faster and leads to increased fuel consumption. To avoid this, tire pressure must be checked when cold. Specific to each vehicle, it is therefore advisable to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations so that tire inflation is optimal.
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