How and why should I check my tyres?

Car safety checks are essential for reasons far more important than insurance premiums and payouts – they can also lessen the risk of an accident out on the road.

There have been a stream of road safety adverts on television recently, but none have highlighted the dangers of driving on damaged or under-maintained wheels.

Regularly checking the tread of a tyre is one such precaution that can advised, as well as making sure the air pressure is within the national legal requirement.

Experts suggest it is important to do this when it is cold, as warm tyres can give false readings, so checking when the weather isn't too friendly can often be the best approach.

The legal depth of tread should be at least 1.6 mm across the central three-quarters and around the whole circumference.

Some experts advise using a 10p piece, suggesting the coin could be used help judge the distances in between pieces of tread. It is highly reccommended that you do go to your local garage or seek the advice of a motoring expert rather than relying on your own judgement.

In a poll taken by a leading motoring website, 73% of those asked said they do not check their tyre pressure and tread regularly, mostly because they didn't know how to go about doing it.

People should also be vigilant to look for any signs of damage to their wheels. Cracks and dents may look small but can quickly turn into larger problems if left unchecked. The more thoroughly and regularly you check for any problems the less money you will have to spend in the long run.

The pressure of a tyre is also important – if it is under or over-inflated the performance of the car out on the roads can be compromised. You should make sure these checks are carried out regularly, as you could pose a threat to not only yourself, but others on the road too.

Equipment helpful for carrying out this essential check is available at most petrol stations, so next time you stop to fill up why not make sure that your car is in a road-worthy state.

If in doubt, it may be worth swapping for a spare or consulting your local mechanic or garage to seek further help.