Safe driving in winter: three tyre-related errors that must be avoided

When you experience the first frosty morning on the way to work and are caught thinking about changing tyres on your summer tyres, then it’s high time for winter tyres or, alternatively, all-season tyres. Winter tyres are extremely important for road safety, especially in regions with heavy snow or mountainous roads. The winter tyre has a different rubber compound that delivers better adhesion and brake performance in the cold. The profiles are also specially shaped for wet and cold roads, ice and snow. “The tread depths of the winter tyres in particular are crucial for grip on snow because when driving, the compacted snow in the grooves interlocks with the snow on the road and acts as an anti-slip system,” says Andreas Schlenke. When changing to winter tyres, you should follow the rule of thumb “From October to Easter.” Winter road conditions are to be expected during this time, which are crucial for the situational obligation to use winter tyres in Germany.

Of course, changing tyres is important for driving safety in winter when using seasonal tyres. However, in the case of incorrect and insensitive handling, the tyres not only have to be changed, but also replaced completely more frequently. This can be due to incorrect storage or an impulsive driving style. “To ensure sustainable and, above all, safe use of the tyres, drivers should adopt an anticipatory driving style in winter and avoid abrupt acceleration and braking,” explains Andreas Schlenke. The service life of winter tyres is also significantly extended through the correct storage of winter tyres in summer. “Above all, it is important to ensure dark and cool storage,” adds Schlenke.