In September 2023, Wales introduced a new, lower default speed limit of 20mph. This change was made to increase safety on Welsh roads for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians. It will also reduce pollution and improve air quality. Not only do lower speeds have an impact on the community, it can also spell change for the condition of your car. Find out more about the effect that the 20mph speed limit will have on your tyres here.
The Best Tyre Performance
Tyres perform at their best when they’re inflated properly and are warmed up. Longer journeys on straight roads like motorways usually result in a decent performance for this reason. Because motorways take high volumes of traffic, the road surfaces tend to be in better condition, resulting in less impact on the tyres.
However, when driving in suburban areas, the roads may be more likely to have potholes or debris in. This could be abrasive and cause damage to your tyres. In addition, you’re more likely to need to brake when navigating side roads and residential areas. The brakes put pressure on the tyres, which does eventually lead to wear and tear. Of course, that’s not to say that you shouldn’t brake! You must always drive safely. Tyres can be replaced far more easily than a life.
Are Your Tyres Performing At Their Best?
If you’re having to replace your tyres more often than usual, it might not be the new speed limits that are causing the issue. It’s always best to get a professional to look over your vehicle. It could be that your wheel alignment is off or you have the wrong kind of tyres for your model of car. You may also discover that your driving style is causing unnecessary wear and tear.
What Is The Most Efficient Driving Style?
To get the best efficiency out of your tyres, you should try and drive as smoothly as possible. Sudden braking causes accumulative damage. If you can, when stuck in traffic you should try to minimise the amount of stopping and starting that you do. When it’s safe to do so, the best thing to do is be patient and wait until you can move forwards in larger increments.
Avoid potholes and uneven roads if you can. When you have no other choice, be sure to drive really slowly and carefully to prevent damage from occurring. If you’re approaching a speed bump, apply the same rules. Slow and controlled driving will have a much lower impact than erratic movements and harsh braking.
If You Need New Tyres, Call Jason’s Tyre Services
The new speed limits in Wales impact everyone. More braking can mean more wear and tear on your tyres. If you haven’t adjusted your driving style to reduce the impact on your car, you may want to bring it in to us for an inspection. Our team will ensure your car is safe to drive.