Üsküdar University Department of Occupational Health and Safety Instructor, Road and Traffic Safety Consultant Özgür Şener, evaluated the topic of safe driving and winter tires in winter months.
Even if the weather is clear, the road may not be safe!
Özgür Şener stated that one of the most common misconceptions drivers have in winter months is thinking they can safely travel with summer tires as long as it doesn't snow, and pointed out that the physical properties of tires also change as air temperatures drop.
Özgür Şener stated that summer tires can harden in low temperatures, which can negatively affect the tire's grip on the road surface, and added that drivers should be more careful, especially during early morning and night travels.
Şener noted that winter tires, thanks to their special rubber structure, better maintain their flexibility in cold weather, which significantly contributes to braking, cornering, and acceleration performance under suitable conditions.
It might be too late when you brake!
Özgür Şener stated that one of the dangers a driver might face in winter conditions is an increased braking distance, and noted that the tires' road grip capacity becomes crucial, especially in situations requiring sudden stops.
Özgür Şener stated that sudden braking with tires unsuitable for the season can cause the vehicle to skid and lose control, and also emphasized that the use of winter tires alone is not sufficient; speed must be adjusted according to road conditions, and following distance must be increased.
Şener recommended that drivers travel at lower speeds, avoid sudden steering movements, and maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead in winter months, stating that correct driving behavior, along with the right tires, plays a critical role in preventing accidents.
Mandate begins on November 15: Private vehicles are also at risk!
Özgür Şener stated that the winter tire mandate in Türkiye will begin on November 15, 2026, and continue until April 15, 2027, and although there is no general legal obligation for private cars, this does not mean that private vehicle drivers are unaffected by the risks in winter conditions, adding that the use of winter tires should not be seen solely as the responsibility of commercial vehicle owners.
Özgür 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 may look new, but might not be safe!
Özgür Şener emphasized that the selection of winter tires should not be made solely by looking at the patterns or external appearance of the tire, and drew attention to the need to check the tire's technical specifications and wear condition.
Şener stated that the tread depth of tires is particularly important for safe driving, and noted that worn tires may be insufficient in water and snow drainage, which can negatively affect road grip on slippery surfaces.
Özgür Şener said, “A worn winter tire ceases to be a winter tire,” and added that drivers should definitely have their tires checked before reinstalling ones they used in previous years.
The small mark on the tire makes a big difference!
Özgür Şener stated that one of the important details drivers should pay attention to when purchasing winter tires is the markings on the tire, reminding that the M+S designation alone does not indicate that a standardized snow performance test has been met. Şener stated that the 3PMSF mark, known as the three-peak mountain and snowflake symbol, is used on tires that meet specific snow performance criteria, and emphasized that drivers should consider this distinction when choosing tires.
Şener noted that in addition to selecting the correct tire, using the vehicle with tire sizes and air pressure values recommended by the manufacturer is also important for safety.
Is your vehicle truly ready for winter?
Özgür Şener pointed out that drivers should not limit their winter preparation solely to tire changes, stating that the technical condition of vehicles becomes even more important, especially in cold weather.
Özgür Şener stated that the battery, antifreeze, wipers, windshield washer fluid, and lighting systems should be checked, and recommended that tire air pressures also be measured at regular intervals.
Şener stated that keeping chains, a tow rope, a reflective vest, and a first aid kit in the vehicle will ensure preparedness for possible adverse situations, and emphasized that chains should not be considered an alternative to winter tires.
“Winter tires are not a choice, but a sense of responsibility!”
Özgür Şener stated that the use of winter tires should not be considered merely a legal obligation or a matter of avoiding traffic fines, and pointed out that every precaution drivers take in traffic directly affects the safety of other road users.
Şener emphasized that conscious driving in winter conditions begins with making the necessary preparations before danger arises, and concluded by saying, 'For everyone on the road in winter conditions, safety begins not with the steering wheel, but with the right tire.'
