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Originally Posted by Jools In other countries I've worked in, people actually have to take some responsibility for themselves rather than take the flimsiest excuse to lard around and take the day off. They have to fit winter tyres, by law, which I'm told are narrower so they cut through snow, have a big old tread and are made of softer compound rubber. |
Jools, both my cars have had winter tyres fitted since November, winter tyres are not restricted to snowy conditions and actualy come into their own when temps drop below 9 degrees, summer tyres do not function correctly in temps under 9 degrees. watching the UK news i have heard pleanty of moaning from motorists who blame the council for not gritting or salting enough, i have yet to hear any of these people state they have done their bit by using winter tyres
Something that would really help the UK market is legislation. A number of other EU countries have made the use of winter tyres a legal requirement and many offer specific winter recommendations
In the UK, however, there is no legislation and very little in the way of advice. The main authority on the subject, the Highway Code, is less than forthcoming. In fact the official guide, which describes itself as "essential reading for everyone," has nothing on the subject of winter tyres, and only contains three entries on the subject of tyres in general. The addition of a line explaining how improved grip could be attained by using winter tyres, would improve consumer perceptions of winter tyres no-end. But as we have seen, a legal requirement would be even better.
The fact remains, as far as the UK government is concerned there is not likely to be any new legislation unless the EU introduces it first.