Tyre Safety Archives - RED Driving School http://www.reddrivingschool.com/category/driving-tips/tyre-safety/ Driving Lessons from Expert Instructors Thu, 28 Mar 2024 09:07:38 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.6 RED Wins Training Provider of the Year at The Intelligent Instructor Awards 2024 https://www.reddrivingschool.com/2024/03/red-wins-training-provider-of-the-year-at-the-intelligent-instructor-awards-2024/ Fri, 01 Mar 2024 09:25:05 +0000 https://www.reddrivingschool.com/?p=20943 We are thrilled to announce that RED Driver Training has won Training Provider of the Year at The Intelligent Instructor...

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We are thrilled to announce that RED Driver Training has won Training Provider of the Year at The Intelligent Instructor Awards 2024. This esteemed recognition underscores RED’s unwavering commitment to excellence and its dedication to enhancing the standards of driver training across the industry.

In taking home gold for Training Provider of the Year, RED has exemplified its ability to offer a first-class service with proven results. Central to RED’s success is its focus on developing instructors’ skills by nurturing and empowering instructors, ensuring they are equipped with the expertise and resources needed to deliver top-tier training experiences.

With a combination of assessments from an independent judging panel and valuable feedback from the driving instructor community, the Intelligent Instructor Awards highlight organisations that demonstrate outstanding performance and effectiveness in their field.

RED Driver Training boasts an impressive track record, having trained over 33% of all instructors nationwide. Sustained growth over the years reflects the increasing demand for high-quality driver education. To meet this demand, we have expanded our network of franchised RED instructors to its largest ever, ensuring widespread accessibility to our training services.

Seb Goldin, CEO of RED Driver Training, says: “Having a strong base of qualified instructors enables us to achieve our key focus of empowering learners to excel and feel safe on the roads. Looking ahead, we are excited about future prospects and opportunities to continue making a positive impact in the lives of both instructors and learner drivers.”

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October is Tyre Safety Month – here’s some tips to look after your tyres! https://www.reddrivingschool.com/2022/10/october-is-tyre-safety-month-heres-some-tips-to-look-after-your-tyres%ef%bf%bc/ https://www.reddrivingschool.com/2022/10/october-is-tyre-safety-month-heres-some-tips-to-look-after-your-tyres%ef%bf%bc/#respond Wed, 05 Oct 2022 11:29:43 +0000 https://www.reddrivingschool.com/?p=16359 As we settle into Tyre Safety Month, it’s a brilliant time to recap on best practice to ensure that tyres...

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As we settle into Tyre Safety Month, it’s a brilliant time to recap on best practice to ensure that tyres are looked after. The largest tyre manufacturer in the world, Michelin, has provided an easy to follow guide.

Earlier this year, alongside our partners at Kwik Fit and Michelin, RED Driving School took part in some research to understand which areas – outside of the learning to drive process – learners and new drivers would benefit from some added advice, finding that tyre maintenance was a key area to work on.

The survey specifically found that over two thirds of respondents had never checked their tyre pressure, a simple way to identify any potential issues. This, coupled with the knowledge that 57% of tyres being driven on Britain’s roads are underinflated, paints a picture of a potentially costly and dangerous outcome for drivers if tyres are left untreated. 

In a time of hyper-focus on finances, it’s worth mentioning that underinflated tyres increase fuel usage and it is estimated that the UK’s motorists could be wasting between £600m – £1 billion in unnecessary fuel bills due to underinflated tyres.

Richard Bezzant, Marketing Director UK & ROI, Michelin Tyre PLC comments, “As tyres naturally lose some air through the rubber, it is important to check your tyre pressure regularly. Without this, you risk losing grip and increasing your braking distances. You can also damage your tyres, shorten their life and increase your fuel consumption. Simple practices can really make the difference.” 



1. What’s the recommended tyre pressure?

Tyre pressure is always optimally defined by the manufacturer for the vehicle / tyre combination with a clear objective: your safety. This is why it is imperative to consult the pressure recommended by your manufacturer for your vehicle. It is generally indicated:

  • on a sticker in your driver’s side door,
  • in the fuel filler flap,
  • or in the vehicle manual.
      

The recommended pressure for your front and rear tyres may not be the same. You will also see that two types of pressure are indicated:

  • Normalised pressure: this is the standard pressure
  • Loaded pressure (often symbolised by passengers and luggage): to be adopted when the vehicle is particularly loaded, for example when going on holiday

The pressure is indicated in the pressure units of either BAR or in PSI (1 bar = 14.50 psi).



2. How do you check your tyre pressure?

The easiest way to do this is to check and adjust your tyre pressure at home. All you need is a portable compressor, which you can buy in Automotive tooling and accessory stores. If you don’t have one, most petrol or service stations have a tyre inflator. 

After identifying the tyre pressure recommended by the manufacturer*, insert the compressor nozzle onto the valve. Check whether the tyre pressure indicated corresponds to the recommendation. If not, press the button to inflate until the correct pressure is reached.



3. When should you check tyre pressure?

Always check your tyre pressure when the tyres have not been driven or have been driven very little and as a minimum on a monthly basis. This is  because when you drive, the tyres heat up, which causes their pressure to rise. If you check your tyre pressure after driving for a long time, you will feel that your tyres are over-inflated and you may be tempted (wrongly) to remove air in order to adjust.

It is recommended that you check your tyre pressure when the vehicle has been driven less than 2 miles. This will give you a true picture of your tyre pressure. If necessary, you can adjust by adding air if the pressure is low.



4. What should I be doing with the spare wheel?

The spare tyre is often overlooked in the tyre pressure checking process. However, if your vehicle is equipped with one, you should be able to rely on it if one of your tyres goes flat or is damaged. The spare tyre also needs to be checked regularly, even if it is not used daily.



5. How do I know I have a tyre puncture? 

TPMS

The TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring System) allows you to detect when your tyres are too low in pressure. It has been compulsory in Europe since 1 November 2014 (in the USA since 2007), which means that your vehicle is equipped with it if it was manufactured after this date.

The advantage of this system is that it provides an automatic warning of your tyre pressure. You might then think that you don’t have to go to the service station every month because the TPMS is there to tell you when it’s time to reinflate your tyres, but that’s not what we recommend.

The TPMS has one drawback: it only activates when your tyres have lost 20% of their air, which is about 0.4 bar on average and at this pressure level, the tyre is already under-inflated and it is known that an under-inflated tyre leads to premature wear. If your tyre wears out prematurely, it will have to be replaced earlier than expected, meaning extra costs.



6. And what do I do about a punctured tyre?

  • Call Recovery if you are unable to continue your journey safely. Damaged tyres should only be removed from the rim by a trained tyre technician who can fully assess the tyre both externally and internally and determine if the tyre is repairable.
  • Small punctures in the tread may be temporarily repaired with a tyre sealant. Always follow the sealant guidelines. NB Do not use tyre sealants if the puncture is too large or if the tyre sidewall itself is damaged. 

Seb Goldin, CEO of RED Driving School comments, “The cost of replacing tyres prematurely far outweighs the effort it takes to check on their wear and tear. We urge all learner and new drivers to get into the habit of regularly checking their tyre pressure once a month, taking into account Michelin’s handy advice.” 

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RED Driving School crowns the best driving instructor in the country in inaugural Driving Instructor of the Year Awards https://www.reddrivingschool.com/2022/10/red-driving-school-crowns-the-best-driving-instructor-in-the-country-in-inaugural-driving-instructor-of-the-year-awards/ https://www.reddrivingschool.com/2022/10/red-driving-school-crowns-the-best-driving-instructor-in-the-country-in-inaugural-driving-instructor-of-the-year-awards/#respond Wed, 05 Oct 2022 11:26:44 +0000 https://www.reddrivingschool.com/?p=16354 After identifying regional winners as those with the most 5-Star Trustpilot reviews from 1st May to 31st July 2022, they...

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  • After identifying regional winners as those with the most 5-Star Trustpilot reviews from 1st May to 31st July 2022, they battled out for the crown in a series of challenges 
  • Niall Davies from Cardiff was crowned as overall individual winner with David Hughes of Merseyside and Lee Underwood of Ascot placing second and third respectively  
  •  Seb Goldin and Niall Davies (left to right)

    National Driving School of the Year, RED Driving School, has crowned the Driving Instructor of the Year as Niall Davies from Cardiff in its inaugural Instructor of the Year Awards final. 

    The event took place at Donington Park race circuit on Saturday 24th September and saw the regional winners take on a series of challenges to determine the most efficient and best driver, following initial identification of the regional winners based on those with the most 5-star Trust Pilot reviews in their localities. The overall individual winner was Niall Davies from Cardiff, Wales who explained he was “truly stunned when he won.” Second and third place were awarded to David Hughes of Merseyside and Lee Underwood of Ascot, respectively.

    Regional winners included Kiran Kaur from the East Midlands who told us that the certificate will “take pride in [their] home office and [they] will truly treasure this moment for a very long time“. Mukesh Kumar, from Wolverhampton, regional winner for West Midlands, has said that it was “an amazing feeling to be nominated but to have won the award is another type of feeling and such a proud moment.“

    The original reviews were taken between 1st May to 31st July, where over 1,000 5-star reviews were posted, demonstrating the strong competition among driving instructors under RED. 

    Seb Goldin, CEO of RED Driving School commented, “We’re extremely proud of the high standards our instructors work to, and it’s brilliant to see it being recognised in our learner’s reviews. RED Driving School is the most reviewed driving school in the country, demonstrating the calibre of our talented instructors.”



    The winners from the final events are as follows:

    1st place overall (individual)Niall Davies
    2nd Place overall (individual)David Hughes
    3rd Place overall (individual)Lee Underwood
    Esso Fuel Efficient Driving 1st (individual) Niall Davies
    Esso 2nd (individual)Lee Underwood
    Esso 3rd (individualDavid Hughes
    Smooth driving Challenge 1st (individual)Lee Underwood



    The winners and runner-ups from each region are as follows:

    RegionRegional Winner2nd Place Runner Up3rd Place Runner Up
    ScotlandKeith PowrieStephani RitchieRichard Smith Bain Cairns
    North West EnglandDavid HughesEdgars BerkisMark White
    North East & Yorkshire & HumberNazreen ShakoorPeter OsborneDarren Beese
    WalesNiall DaviesKris BorysMichael Hastings
    West MidlandsMukesh KumarDilip Kumar SummonSteven Edwards
    East MidlandsKiran KaurMurray WalkerDerek Perkins
    East of EnglandBridgette EverettTimothy GrossetAaron Martin Jones
    South West EnglandRoger FrapwellKhalid Shalal G BedawiMichal Polowczyk
    South East EnglandLee UnderwoodManuel MonteiroJamaideen Kareem
    David Hughes, Niall Davies, Lee Underwood (left to right)

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    Potholes: New research reveals that learner drivers may be unaware of the dangers of hitting a pothole, with almost half willing to keep driving after hitting one https://www.reddrivingschool.com/2022/07/potholes-research/ https://www.reddrivingschool.com/2022/07/potholes-research/#respond Fri, 29 Jul 2022 09:32:03 +0000 https://www.reddrivingschool.com/?p=15594 Research from RED Driving School, National Driving School of the Year, has revealed the concerns of learner and newly qualified...

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  • A new survey from RED Driving School highlights concerns over potholes and how they could impact learners on their driving test. 
  • Whilst over half (60%) of learner drivers are fearful of the impact of hitting a pothole, almost half (44%) of learner drivers would not consider stopping their car after hitting a pothole
  • Test routes are splattered with potholes throughout the UK, with nearly two thirds of respondents (64%) claiming they encounter one or more potholes on their test routes
  • In response, RED, Michelin and Kwik Fit have teamed up to provide guidance on best pothole practice to ensure learners know how best to deal with them
  • Research from RED Driving School, National Driving School of the Year, has revealed the concerns of learner and newly qualified drivers when it comes to potholes – a hazardous aspect of driving which is not specifically tested against in the UK driving test or mentioned in any DVSA publication at present. 

    In the survey which asked over 1,000 learner drivers about their sentiment towards potholes and road safety, nearly two thirds (60%) of respondents claimed that they would be scared about how a pothole would impact their vehicle. 

    Although the majority of the UK’s learner drivers are fearful about potholes, almost half (44%) of learner drivers admitted that they wouldn’t consider stopping to perform any checks on their vehicle immediately after hitting a pothole. While some (32%) resolved that they would perform checks on arrival of their planned destination, a small portion of respondents (4%) said they would completely ignore the fact that they had hit a pothole, demonstrating a lack of awareness of the potential severity of hitting a pothole.  

    In response to these findings, RED, Kwik Fit and Michelin are teaming up to educate the learner drivers of our country on best practice to ensure optimal safety as well as becoming more mindful when it comes to tyre and car maintenance.   

    While potholes aren’t specifically acknowledged within any DVSA publication, RED Driving School instructors teach learners about the dangers of potholes during skills lessons in the learning process, alongside other topics such as road positioning, dealing with obstructions, anticipation and planning. 

    While the Asphalt Industry Alliance stated an increase in potholes being filled by councils in 2021, resulting in 1.7 million potholes being addressed across England and Wales, their presence on local roads are still a reality for learner drivers; nearly two thirds (64%) of respondents claimed that there are one or more potholes on their driving test route. 

    Seb Goldin, CEO of RED Driving School comments: “The findings of this survey demonstrate an appetite for a learning curriculum which encompasses more about tyre pressure and damage, so that learner drivers can know what to look out for should there be an incident while independently driving. Including an aspect on the test which requires the learner driver to prove they are able to set and test tyre pressures would encourage better education and we believe the DVSA should make this adaption to the current test.”  

    Hitting a pothole can cause damage to a tyre that results in inflation pressure loss. This pressure loss might be slow and progressive but could be sudden if the impact is severe enough. The same survey also revealed a lack of knowledge when it comes to tyre pressure checking, with two thirds (66%) of learner drivers never having performed a check themselves, and nearly half of this demographic (26%) admitting that they simply do not have the knowledge to perform this check themselves.  

    Brian Porteous, Michelin Technical Manager commented: “Tyres are designed to be robust, but driving through potholes, even slowly, can cause abrasion and deep scoring to the sidewalls if they are forced against sharp, jagged stones.  

    “More severe impacts can cause internal damage to the tyre structure that propagates over time. Setting tyre inflation pressures correctly helps the tyre resist damage and regular checking can help detect early signs of internal damage, too.  Setting correct tyre pressures is important not only for a car’s braking performance, handling and fuel consumption, but over-inflated tyres are more vulnerable to shock impact damage and underinflated tyres crush and distort more easily.” 

    Roger Griggs, communications director at Kwik Fit, says: “Potholes present both a safety risk and a financial cost to drivers through the damage they can cause. Unfortunately, our research has shown that the total cost of potholes to the nation’s drivers is rising each year, partly due to the country’s deteriorating road surfaces. Any driver who has hit a pothole and suspects they may have suffered damage but are unsure what to look for can take their car to any Kwik Fit centre across the UK where our expert technicians will check for damage.”

    Advising the UK’s drivers on best practice to reacting to potholes, Michelin and Kwik Fit have created a guide on what to do following pothole impact. 

    StatusAdvice
    Pothole impact.Check the feel of the car, listen and be sensitive to any noticeable changes when driving, particularly if the level of impact was high. Does the car pull to the left or right- perhaps under braking, if the steering becomes heavy, or if there is any vibration or noise?  If changes are apparent, think about which wheel may have been damaged and if it was the inside or outside sidewall.  Then as soon as possible find a safe place to pull over and visually check the tyre and wheel rim condition.
    Tyre deformation (e.g. distortions/ bulges) or significant cuts or scratching to tyre side wall. Do not drive on a tyre which is deformed or you suspect might be damaged internally, even if it is holding pressure.  Replace the tyre with a spare, or call Recovery.  Deflate the suspected damaged tyre when it is removed from the car so that it is safe to carry. A thorough internal and external examination is recommended by a tyre professional. Any damage to the wheel rim should also be inspected.
    Tyre puncture due to pothole damage.  Replace with spare wheel if present. Use of tyre sealant products is not recommended for tyre side wall damage. Call Recovery if no spare wheel.

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    The Great British staycation: how to make sure you’re safe before setting off https://www.reddrivingschool.com/2022/11/the-great-british-staycation-how-to-make-sure-youre-safe-before-setting-off/ https://www.reddrivingschool.com/2022/11/the-great-british-staycation-how-to-make-sure-youre-safe-before-setting-off/#respond Fri, 25 Nov 2022 12:30:00 +0000 https://www.reddrivingschool.com/?p=14675 The first long distance drive after passing your test can be a scary one. Whilst a staycation is fun, it...

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    The first long distance drive after passing your test can be a scary one. Whilst a staycation is fun, it can be pretty daunting to embark on your first drive with family or friends.

    There are a number of internal and external checks you can do to ensure your car is roadworthy! We have detailed them below to make your staycation as stress free as possible.

    External: 

    1. Check the general condition of your tyres including the tyre pressures and tread depth. Tread depth is explained in detail below. 
    2. Check for fluid leaks and try to determine where the leak is coming from and what’s actually leaking. The easiest way to do that is to slide some white cardboard underneath the car while it’s parked up so it can capture the drips. Once you find out where the leak is coming from, you can take the necessary steps to sort it out. 
    3. Investigate any warning lights by taking the car to be serviced if you see any. 
    4. Check that your headlights and all other lights are working by testing them before you drive. 
    5. Turn on your windscreen wipers and check the wiper blades are functioning and not leaving any streaks or smears. 

    Most of the above are fairly obvious and self-explanatory, however checking tyre tread depth and condition may be a little more involved, so here’s our easy-to-follow guide.  

    The best way to check your tyre tread depth is to use a tyre tread depth gauge but if you don’t have one to hand, take a 20p coin and insert it into the tread grooves on the tyre. If you can’t see the outer band on the coin, your tyres are above the legal limit. However, if you can see the band and that section of the coin is still visible, your tyres could be unsafe and require professional inspection by a mechanic. 

    If a tyre requires replacement ensure it’s to the car manufacturer’s recommended size, speed and load rating and a match to the tyre on the same axle. Where two new tyres are fitted, they should always be moved to the rear. 

    Check that your tyres are in good condition by first checking the tyre pressures at a local service station, or use a digital tyre pressure gauge/inflator at home if you have one. For any tyre that has a pressure significantly lower than the car manufacturer’s recommended pressure, look for anything obvious that may be causing a slow puncture, e.g. screws or nails stuck in the tread. Any visible bulges are likely to indicate kerbing damage and in either instance you should take the car for inspection by a professional. If you see any of these, chances are your tyre needs replacing so get it checked by an expert.

    Internal: 

    1. Check your coolant level is between the min and max line. This can be done by raising the bonnet and securing in a raised position, locating the cooling tank and checking the level.
    2. Use the dipstick to check your oil level. Do this by opening the bonnet to locate the dipstick. Once you’ve found the dipstick, pull it out and wipe off all the oil with a cloth or rag. There will be two marks towards its end indicating the upper and lower levels of oil. If the oil appearing on the dipstick is towards the lower level then it is time to top it up.
    3. Make sure to refill your screen wash bottle. The wash bottle can be located anywhere under the bonnet. The easiest way to find yours is to look in your car’s handbook. The cap is frequently blue, although it might be black or even white. Added to this, it will have a graphic that shows the shape of a swept windscreen with water drops squirting up from the middle.

    This might seem like a lot to do, and it will be a little time consuming, but do you know what’s more time consuming? Breaking down en route!

    Once you’ve checked your car is in top condition, make sure you don’t overload with your packing.  Kwik Fit has teamed up with SAS officer Mark ‘Billy’ Billingham to provide advice on what should – and shouldn’t – go in your boot. 

    If you want help, Kwik Fit offer a free vehicle health check. Their trained technicians can advise on any maintenance required, either now or in the near future, so that you set off on your summer holiday with complete peace of mind– all you have to do is hope the sun shines!

    For further advice on tyres and tyre care, visit michelin.co.uk/auto/tips-and-advice/advice-auto.             

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    EVs- Are They Really Worth the Investment? https://www.reddrivingschool.com/2022/02/evs-are-they-worth-it/ https://www.reddrivingschool.com/2022/02/evs-are-they-worth-it/#respond Thu, 24 Feb 2022 15:33:07 +0000 https://www.reddrivingschool.com/?p=14628 EVs are the talk of the town, but some people are questioning whether EVs really are worth the investment. The...

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    EVs are the talk of the town, but some people are questioning whether EVs really are worth the investment.

    The UK Government announced that it will ban the sale of petrol and diesel cars by 2030, and many of our learners have shown an interest in purchasing an EV after they pass their tests. But there is still some hesitation when it comes to going fully electric!

    We’ve taken a look at your most common concerns…. 

    EV car in motion

    Charging costs  

    Electric cars have a higher upfront cost than petrol and diesel equivalents, but money can be saved on the charging costs vs fuel. The average cost of buying an electric car in the UK is around £44,000, with prices ranging from £17,350 up to £138,826, or even more. For many, the cheapest entry point to driving an EV will be through monthly leasing or PCP (Personal Contract Purchase) schemes.

    The next big consideration is the cost of charging. Many EV car manufacturers claim a battery range of 250 miles on a single charge, although some, including Teslas, can achieve about 350 miles on a single charge.

    Charging an electric car at home costs about £9.20 for a full charge and is the most convenient and cost-effective way to keep your car fully charged. Most drivers will charge their electric car overnight, waking up to a full battery every morning. If you decide to mainly charge from your home, it’s important to get the right EV electricity tariff. This means you spend less money charging and save more on your bill. There are two types of tariff: two-rate tariffs which offer cheaper electricity overnight or single-rate tariffs. This is where you pay the same rate throughout the day however it’s discounted if you have an EV. To find the right tariff, it is usually best to do a manual comparison.  

    EV Range

    The distance you can travel in your EV depends on your vehicle type. The main influencing factor is the battery capacity. Typically, the greater the capacity of an electric car’s battery, the further it can drive between charges.  

    With the government’s decision to stop the production of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030, almost every major car maker has electric vehicles available to buy or planned for the next few years. This means there is a substantial choice already which is only going to expand, helping your decision as you find one with the right range for you.  

    Some of our personal favourites at RED are the EV Renault Zoe, the EV Vauxhall Corsa and the EV Peugeot e-208. 

    While battery capacity is one of the most obvious factors which determines the range of an EV, a lesser-known consideration is the tyre choice. 

    EVs are designed for efficiency, range and low running costs at relatively low speeds. Here, a low rolling resistance tyre is key. EVs have a more efficient way of moving than diesel or petrol Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles, meaning that tyres are responsible for a slightly larger proportion of the overall drag on the vehicle.  

    Michelin has a long history of producing low rolling resistance tyres. The demand an EV places on a tyre is often greater than that of an ICE vehicle as they tend to be heavier due to the battery drive system, which can reduce tyre life.  

    EVs are also typically quieter than ICE vehicles, and therefore tyre noise within the car’s interior can be more pronounced. In response, Michelin has developed Acoustic Technology with a polyurethane foam applied to the inner surface of the tyre to help reduce noise from the tyre cavity, delivering an approximate20% reduction in perceived noise level inside the cabin.  

    With the different and novel demands that EVs place on tyres, choosing the right tyre has never been more important, and our friends at Kwik-Fit are on-hand to help you find tyres that suit your needs and budget. 

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    Where You Can’t Park https://www.reddrivingschool.com/2021/12/where-you-cant-park/ https://www.reddrivingschool.com/2021/12/where-you-cant-park/#respond Tue, 07 Dec 2021 17:04:35 +0000 https://www.reddrivingschool.com/?p=13923 Parking in unauthorised areas can be a costly and frustrating mistake. Often, it is made obvious by signs which state...

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    Parking in unauthorised areas can be a costly and frustrating mistake. Often, it is made obvious by signs which state that you can’t park in certain areas, but you may also find yourself caught out from time to time. Having a strong knowledge of the general rules that apply can help to avoid this happening.

    cars parked on road

    Yellow Lines

    You will come across both single and double yellow lines whilst driving. Single yellow lines indicate that there is no parking on that stretch of road during specific times of the day. These times are often displayed on nearby signs or at the entrances to controlled parking zones. These areas can often be utilised for picking up and dropping off passengers unless signs state otherwise, however you must not wait for a prolonged period of time. Double yellow lines operate differently. The highway code states that double yellow lines ‘indicate a prohibition of waiting at any time even if there are no upright signs.’ As a general rule of thumb, we recommended never parking on double yellow lines. One exception to this rule is for Blue Badge holders. This would permit you to park for three hours with a badge clearly on display. 

    White Lines

    White lines are another common road feature and often a useful one (if you’re trying to park). Solid, unbroken white lines indicate that parking is allowed. However, in some cases a single white line may be an indication of no pavement and in this instance you must not park there. 

    Residential Areas

    Typically, in residential areas residents in that area will have priority with regards to parking. Parking bays are marked along the road for permit holders. In some cases, the parking will be for permit holders only at all times. In other instances, you may find that signs indicate permit holder times. The hours displayed show when permit holders only can park. This means that you can park in that area outside of these hours. If there are no signs displayed this would suggest that parking is allowed at any time. Be mindful of where your car is positioned when parking. Do not park in front of driveways or on the pavement. Your parking should not cause problems for pedestrians and other road users. 

    Car Parks

    There are certain spaces in car parks reserved for specific drivers. Some of which include disabled spaces and parent & child spaces. You may also see signs that permit parking with a mention of, for example, ‘two hours, return within 1 hour’ which means that you’re allowed to park there for 2 hours but you can’t park and return within one hour to park again. 

    Other areas where parking is prohibited:

    • Red lines
    • Cycle tracks
    • Taxi bays
    • Bus stops
    • Bus lanes during times of operation (check signs)
    • Double white lines
    • Clearways (indicated by a round blue sign with a red cross)
    • Loading bays
    • Yellow zig-zag lines

    What will happen if I wrongly park?

    If you park in unauthorised areas you could land yourself a large fine. A Penalty Charge Notice (parking ticket) will be issued if a traffic enforcement officer deems that you are wrongly parked. The cost of this depends on the area. You will be granted 28 days to pay, often with a 50% discount if you pay within the first 14 days.

    Having a strong knowledge of the other places you cannot park will help you in the long run. Generally, if you’re unsure whether or not to park and there are no clear signs to indicate yes or no then we suggest refraining from parking altogether to minimise risk.

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    How tyres can put the skids on passing your driving test https://www.reddrivingschool.com/2021/03/how-tyres-can-put-the-skids-on-passing-your-driving-test/ https://www.reddrivingschool.com/2021/03/how-tyres-can-put-the-skids-on-passing-your-driving-test/#respond Wed, 03 Mar 2021 16:44:42 +0000 https://www.reddrivingschool.com/?p=10975 Revising for your theory test and preparing for your practical exam are very different tasks, but when it comes to...

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    Revising for your theory test and preparing for your practical exam are very different tasks, but when it comes to tyres, there’s a lot of overlap. In both assessments you will be asked a variety of questions about tyres to ensure your knowledge is up to scratch. Not knowing the answers can put the skids on getting your licence, so make sure you’re au fait with our pointers on best tyre practice.

    Testing your tyre theory

    There are a number of potential questions your theory test could throw up in relation to tyres and braking and they all tend to base themselves around the following scenarios:

    Cold weather
    Cold weather can reduce the pressure in tyres, so this should be checked regularly during cold snaps. The opposite happens during very hot weather. You should be able to find the recommended pressure for your tyres on a small sticker on your bodywork, or in the vehicle handbook.

    Under-inflated tyres
    Tyres that aren’t inflated to their designated pressure point can lead to poor braking, increased fuel consumption and heavy steering – all of which make driving more dangerous. A correctly inflated tyre improves safety and rolls more easily, saving fuel and reducing your running costs, in addition to CO2 emissions.

    Tread depth
    The minimum tread depth must be 1.6mm over three quarters of the tyre’s tread width and around the entire outer circumference. You may have heard of the 20p test before… and it’s really simple! Place a 20p coin inside the main tread groove of the tyre. If the outer band of the 20p piece is obscured by the tread, then your tyres have adequate tread. If you can see the outer band of the 20p piece your tyres could be approaching the legal limit, so it’s advised to have them checked as soon as possible.

    Excessive and uneven tyre wear can be caused by a defective braking or suspension system, or poor wheel alignment, so make sure to check these if you notice any issues with your tyres.

    Tyres that have cuts, gouges or bulges in the side walls are illegal and must be replaced. The test will not go ahead!

    Tyre types
    There are two different types of tyres: cross ply and radial ply. They’re made slightly differently. A rule of thumb is that cross ply tyres will be thicker walled, cheaper, last a little longer and have slightly worse grip. Radial ply tyres perform in the opposite way and for that reason, it is illegal to mix cross-ply and radial-ply tyres across the same axle in the UK.

    Practical test tyre questions

    Before you even set foot in the car, the examiner may ask you to answer tyre-related questions as part of the “show me, tell me” element of the practical assessment.

    The DVSA website has an extensive list of questions you might be asked, but we’ve picked out the most relevant tyre questions below. It’s likely you’ll only be asked one of the two on your test, but it’s best to be prepared!

    Q: Tell me where you’d find the information for the recommended tyre pressures for this car and how tyre pressures should be checked.

    A: You can find the recommended tyre pressure information on the side of the tyre or in the manufacturer’s guide. When checking the pressure, you should use a reliable pressure gauge, check and adjust pressures when tyres are cold and remember to refit valve caps. It’s also vital to have a back-up plan to deal with punctures, so be sure to carry a spare tyre, a space-saver spare wheel or a tyre sealant and inflator kit.

    Q: Tell me how you’d check the tyres to ensure they have a sufficient tread depth and their general condition is safe to use on the road.

    A: The tyres need to be free from cuts and bulges. The minimum tread depth must be 1.6mm over three quarters of the tyre’s tread width and around the entire outer circumference of the tyre. You can verify this with the 20p coin test.

    Before the test, the examiner will make a cursory vehicle check, including tyres, to make sure it meets the minimum standard for driving. One of the rules your car must adhere to before testing is that there is no tyre damage and each tyre must meet the legal tread depth. You cannot have space-saver spare tyres fitted for a driving test.

    Unfortunately, if you get a flat tyre, the test will be abandoned, and you’ll have to rebook a future timeslot. The DVSA doesn’t make any concession for this.

    Making sure your tyre knowledge is up to scratch stands you in the best stead for a successful driving test experience.  

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    The true cost of buying part worn tyres https://www.reddrivingschool.com/2021/11/the-true-cost-of-buying-part-worn-tyres/ https://www.reddrivingschool.com/2021/11/the-true-cost-of-buying-part-worn-tyres/#respond Wed, 03 Nov 2021 12:49:10 +0000 https://www.reddrivingschool.com/?p=13568 The pandemic has left many of us feeling cash strapped, and this presents its own set of challenges when it...

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    The pandemic has left many of us feeling cash strapped, and this presents its own set of challenges when it comes to running and maintaining a car. 

    One way drivers consider reducing spend is to buy part worn tyres instead of brand new ones. In a recent survey conducted by RED Driving School in partnership with Kwik-Fit and Michelin canvassing attitudes towards part worn tyres, we found that, despite the risks, almost one-third of the learners (29%) would consider buying part worn tyres.



    What are part worn tyres?

    As the name suggests, part worn tyres are tyres that have been previously fitted and used on a vehicle.

    Respondents to RED’s survey said they’d purchase part worn tyres because they thought they were a cheaper option than new tyres. In addition, several respondents said they’d consider them as a short-term measure if they were experiencing financial hardship.



    Why do people buy part worn tyres?

    • There are signs it could be a false economy. While the initial outlay may be lower, part worns often end up proving more expensive in the long run. A study by Tyresafe showed that, in terms of lifetime cost per mm of tread wear, a new tyre (typically 7-8mm tread depth) cost around £5.32 per mm vs £6.33 per mm for a part worn with a typical tread depth of 3mm, though they can be legally sold with a tread depth of just 2mm. Driving on tyres less than 1.6mm carries a fine of £2,500 and three penalty points on a driver’s licence per tyre which can result in increased car insurance premiums, so why take the risk? 
    • Purchasing used tyres from sellers via online trading platforms might also seem like an attractive option, but it’s not possible to easily identify damage to the tyre and there’s no way of knowing the tyre’s history. There could be accident or kerbing damage that remains undetected. Even a professional inspection might not be able to determine internal condition. It’s a key reason why Kwik-Fit and other reputable retailers have chosen not to sell part-worn tyres. 


    The importance of high quality tyres

    Tyres are primarily a safety device: they are the only things that connect a car to the road and allow a vehicle to be steered and stopped. On average, 159 people are killed or seriously injured as a result of defective tyre related accidents annually in the UK. Fitting new tyres provides greater reassurance when it comes to safety, and over the life of the tyre, will often result in a lower cost of ownership. Kwik-Fit recommends fitting a premium tyre brand, such as Michelin, budget permitting. If affordability is an issue, the advice is to buy a new mid-range tyre over any part worn tyre, even if the part worn tyre is a premium tyre brand.

    You could also consider joining Kwik Fit Club, a subscription scheme that spreads the cost of your tyres over their entire life, avoiding single up-front payments.  It also covers you for any replacement tyres or repairs needed as a result of punctures or damage.

    Ultimately, with part worn tyres you could be placing your life and that of others at risk and so we strongly advise all motorists to purchase brand new tyres. No “cost saving” is worth injury or loss of life.

    Man with glasses driving car

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