TyreSafe is proud to support the latest phase of National Highways’ winter TRIP campaign, which focuses on the “P” for Prepare. As colder weather arrives and the risk of heavy rain, snow and ice increases, the campaign urges drivers to take simple, proactive steps before setting off to help keep themselves and others safe on the roads.
This winter wave of the campaign highlights how National Highways and its supply chain work around the clock to prepare the network for adverse conditions, from gritting roads to managing snow and ice, while reminding drivers to plan ahead and prepare their vehicles for challenging weather. Key measures include checking the weather forecast, carrying essential supplies, ensuring headlights and fog lights are used correctly, and carrying out vital tyre safety checks before travelling.
Winter breakdowns on major A roads and motorways have increased by 21% over the past five years, with more than 67,000 incidents recorded between December 2024 and February 2025 alone. Additionally, 30% of UK driving licence holders say they have experienced a collision or near-miss on a motorway or major A road, with over a third attributing the incident to weather conditions. In 2023, slippery roads caused by adverse weather were a contributing factor in 7% of all killed or seriously injured incidents on the strategic road network. These figures underline how rapidly winter conditions can change, and why National Highways is urging drivers to prepare properly.
Tyres play a critical role in winter road safety. One in five motorway breakdowns is caused by tyre problems, and the likelihood of a breakdown increases significantly when tyres are worn, incorrectly inflated or poorly maintained. In winter, these risks are amplified: cold temperatures naturally reduce tyre pressure, wet and icy surfaces increase braking distances, and low tread depth dramatically reduces grip. Driving with tyres even 10% under the recommended pressure can make a vehicle harder to steer and significantly lengthen stopping distances. Driving on tyres with insufficient tread depth is illegal and severely limits vehicle control, especially in wet or icy conditions.
To stay safe this winter, drivers are urged to carry out three essential tyre checks before every journey by following TyreSafe’s ACT acronym:
A – Air Pressure: Ensure your tyres are inflated to the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended pressure. This information can be found in the owner’s handbook or on the driver’s door shut.
C – Condition: Visually inspect each tyre for any signs of damage, including cuts, bulges, cracks, or embedded objects. Damage of this kind can seriously affect tyre performance, especially in cold, wet, or icy weather.
T – Tread: Check that your tyre tread depth is above the legal minimum of 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre. More tread offers better grip in winter conditions, reducing stopping distances and improving vehicle control.
Stuart Lovatt, TyreSafe Chair, said: “Winter is one of the most challenging times to be on the road, and poorly maintained or illegal tyres pose an even greater danger as temperatures drop and road surfaces become unpredictable. Too many winter incidents are preventable through simple tyre checks that take just minutes to complete. By supporting National Highways’ TRIP campaign, we are urging drivers to prepare properly before they travel. Safe tyres are essential for safe journeys, especially in winter. Taking the time to check tyre pressure, tread and condition can prevent breakdowns, reduce collisions, and ultimately save lives.”
Together, TyreSafe and National Highways are encouraging every driver to make tyre safety and winter preparation a fixed part of their routine. Planning ahead, checking your vehicle and ensuring your tyres are safe and legal are quick, effective steps that help keep everyone safer on the roads during the most challenging months of the year.
