Continental is showing its support for October’s Tyre Safety Month with a call for U.K. motorists to be aware of the safety benefits winter tires offer. Traditionally the British climate has been viewed as too temperate to warrant winter tires, yet last year’s “big freeze” saw many drivers unprepared and left stranded or involved in accidents that might have been avoided had winter tires been fitted, the company said.

A Continental survey carried out after the cold snap in January revealed more than 3 million motorists had experienced a run-in with another vehicle. One in 10 drivers had crashed into other road users during the snowy and icy weather and 45% of those questioned admitted to having had two or more near misses. Yet while motorists across Europe will be changing to winter tires this month to ensure their vehicles are best equipped for the coming season, the UK market for winter tires remains very small in comparison.

“We look on with envy at European countries that manage to keep business going as usual when a few flakes of snow bring our roads to a standstill,” commented Continental brand manager Tracey Hyem. “Those countries have a history of fitting the right tires for the right season. Winter tires are available to purchase in the U.K. from all good retailers. Our advice to drivers is to think about winter tires early. There’s no point in being stuck on your driveway when the snow starts falling.”

As evidence of winter tires’ advantage in the colder months, Continental points to tests comparing winter and standard tires that show braking distances on snow from a speed of 30 mph can vary as much as eight meters. In general, winter tires provide shorter braking distances and better grip when the temperature drops below 7 degrees C (45 F), which is where average temperatures last winter lay. (Tyres & Accessories)