December 25, 2005

By: David Parker
Website: http://www.buying-tires.com

Winter Tire Tips—For Safe Winter Driving

Winter tire tips are necessary for safety purpose in winter weather. As compared to summer and rainy seasons, in winters you need to be more careful and attentive to avoid any unwanted circumstances because roads are ice covered and outside temperature is freezing. Never underestimate the importance of even a single winter tire tip as given by experts. One of the most important winter tips is that instead of using two winter tires, always put all the four tires of the same make and tire tread pattern. Installing four winter tires on a vehicle will help maintain handling stability and traction. Never ever, rely on all-season tires as few people mistakenly think that all-season tires can deliver the same performance as winter tires!

Next, an important yet old fashioned tip is that always be in control and as far as possible avoid driving in heavy snow and if driving avoid using sudden brakes. But, when encountering snowy conditions, remember to slow down as it takes a vehicle twice as long as to stop on a road covered in snow and ice than it does on dry roads. Instead of getting actually trapped in winter snowstorms, it is a good idea to put good pairs of winter tires on your vehicle in advance. The temperatures are usually around the freezing point, when ice is almost water, making it extremely slippery. This is when you need the most friction between the road surface and your tires. Moreover, be very selective while choosing winter tires, while paying attention to tread patterns don’t underestimate the importance of the rubber compound used in tires. The flexible rubber found in the new generation winter tires provides that friction by maintaining its elasticity up to -40°C. Moreover, be attentive while driving and use indicators and hazard lights for better visibility and signaling. Never cross the speed limits as they are maximum limits in normal conditions.

The best tip is to get a good set of winter tires that will grip in ice and snow. Unquestionably, nothing matches a good pair of winter tires in winter season, because companies are wise enough to manufacture these special tires. They put together years of hard work, experience, research and designing efforts to bring these tires to you. However, if you still want to carry on with your all season tires then don’t forgot measuring the tread depth. You need at least 4.8mm (3/16) of tread to effectively plough through snow. If you are using all season tires it will only take one or two winters until you've reached that depth. Winter tires, on the other hand, have deeper treads to begin with, and since you use them only during winter months, they'll retain an effective depth for three or four winters. Unique tread compounds allow for rubber flexibility with colder temperatures that generate enhanced ice and snow grip.

Author Notes:

David Parker contributes and publishes news editorial to http://www.buying-tires.com.  David Parker is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.buying-tires.com. A top resource for tires, including articles with compari