A significant portion of the increasing traffic accidents during winter months stems not so much from driving errors as from the use of tires unsuitable for the season. Road and Traffic Safety Consultant Özgür Şener emphasized that winter tires are not just about compliance with regulations but also about the driver's awareness of protecting their own safety and the lives of others, stating, “For everyone on the road in winter conditions, the place where safety begins is not the steering wheel; it is the correct tire.”
Özgür Şener stated, “For everyone on the road in winter conditions, the place where safety begins is not the steering wheel; it is the correct tire.”
Özgür Şener, Lecturer at Üsküdar University's Department of Occupational Health and Safety, and Road and Traffic Safety Consultant, explained the critical role of winter tires in driving safety.
Mandatory for commercial vehicles, a risk for everyone
Şener reminded that the winter tire application for commercial vehicles carrying intercity cargo and passengers begins on December 1st and continues until April 1st each year. He stated that although there is no legal obligation for passenger cars, the same risks apply to private vehicle drivers.
Şener said, “Driving with summer tires in winter conditions significantly reduces vehicle control. Therefore, even if there is no legal obligation, it is vitally important for private vehicles to use winter tires during these dates.”
Tires designed for cold weather determine safety
Şener stated that winter tires are optimal tires developed specifically for the season, and thanks to their soft structure, they adapt better to the road surface at low temperatures.
Şener noted that summer tires harden below 7 degrees Celsius, leading to a loss of grip. He added that winter tires offer shorter stopping distances during acceleration, cornering, and braking, and their special tread patterns allow for more effective evacuation of water, snow, and mud.
Not every ‘M+S’ tire is a true winter tire
Şener pointed out that merely looking at the “M+S” mark is not enough when choosing winter tires, emphasizing that the 3PMSF (Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake) mark meets international standards.
Şener stated that tires bearing this mark have passed tests for braking, traction, and cornering performance on snow, ice, and slush. He added that tires with only the M+S designation do not offer this performance guarantee.
Tread depth is the limit of safety
Özgür Şener reminded that the tread depth of winter tires for commercial vehicles cannot be less than 4 millimeters, and stated that this value should be considered the minimum limit for safe driving in passenger cars as well.
“A worn winter tire ceases to be a winter tire,” said Şener, adding that tires with insufficient tread depth significantly prolong braking distances, especially.
It's not enough to use tires correctly, they must also be stored correctly
Şener stated that winter tires maintain their performance not only when installed but also through their storage conditions. He emphasized that tires should be stored in cool, dry environments away from direct sunlight.
Şener stated that cleaning the tires and storing them, preferably in vacuum bags and away from chemical substances, prevents the deterioration of the rubber structure.
Before hitting the road, check beyond the tires
Şener stated that winter safety is not limited to tires alone, and urged drivers to complete their vehicle maintenance thoroughly before setting off. Özgür Şener reminded that antifreeze, wipers, windshield washer fluid, lighting systems, fog lights, and tire pressure should conform to manufacturer values.
Şener also said that having chains, a tow rope, a reflective vest, and a first aid kit ready in the vehicle is vital in case of potential risks.
Winter tire is not a preference, it is an awareness
Özgür Şener emphasized that winter tires are not just about compliance with regulations but also about the driver's awareness of protecting their own safety and the lives of others, concluding his remarks with the statement:
“For everyone on the road in winter conditions, the place where safety begins is not the steering wheel; it is the correct tire.”