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For many experienced motorists, tackling tricky driving conditions in the winter is a doddle, and the thought of changing to winter tyres dismissed without hesitation. After all, with anti-lock brakes, power steering, and myriad other safety measures available, heading out during the colder months of the year no longer presents the same level of risk as it did a few years ago. Or does it?
Harsh weather conditions should never be taken lightly, and cutting corners on safety is hazardous not only to motorists, but to passengers and pedestrians too. For commercial vehicles, the dangers presented by snow, black ice, rain, etc. are just as apparent; in fact, with many vans being used to transport heavy and industrial goods, making sure the risk of accidents is mitigated as much as possible is key. And therein lies the value of winter tyres for your used van.
Unlike regular - or summer - tyres, winter tyres are made from a rubber with high silica content. Whereas summer tyres stiffen in colder temperatures, these high silica tyres combine with a special tread pattern to maintain flexibility, providing better braking and handling for driving on ice, snow and wet roads. As such, fitting winter tyres on your used van means better performance during inclement weather is assured.
Many studies into the efficacy of winter tyres have been conducted over the years to allay concerns that motorists have over investing in such measures. The results of these have determined that, although they can be used in any conditions, the best time to change to winter tyres is once the temperature drops below 7°C.
Once fitted, winter tyres have the ability to significantly shorten braking distances during the colder seasons; in fact, braking to a standstill from 30mph on a snow-covered road is achieved in 35 metres, compared to the 43 metres necessary for regular summer tyres. As the equivalent of two car lengths, the value of fitting winter tyres to your used van is clear.
As identified above, winter tyres perform best once outside temperatures dip below 7°C. Of course, where in the UK you live will impact when to put on winter tyres. It is thus a good rule of thumb to ensure you stay alert to the changing weather conditions throughout the autumn, taking measures to invest in winter tyres and fitting them to your used van once the colder season sets in.
Fitting winter tyres may seem like another added expense during vehicle ownership but, with the safety of you and those around you of paramount importance, failing to take the necessary measures to ensure responsible driving could prove disastrous. To find out more about fitting winter tyres, road safety, or even the business contract hire options available for investing in a safe used van, contact the Vanwise dealership in Harlow today.