Tyresafe is using a new 360 degree video app to depict the startling difference in braking distances between tyres just below the legal limit and those with full tread.

The film has been devised to immerse viewers in the action so they can safely experience for themselves the lack of control provided by tyres with dangerously low tread depth. The film builds to a dramatic climax as the test car careers through a purpose-built wall – out of control and unable to stop in time. 

Following the controlled incident, viewers can see for themselves how much further it has travelled before coming to a stop compared with the car equipped with almost new tyres – a full 14m, practically a bus length.

Called TyreSafe 360, the film is best appreciated using a smartphone and virtual reality (VR) goggles, allowing viewers to simply turn their heads to get an all-round view of the action. It is available as an app from the App Store or Google Play and once downloaded it does not require an internet connection to play as the footage is embedded. 

Stuart Jackson, chairman, TyreSafe, said: “TyreSafe 360 brings to life the risks of driving with tyres approaching, or just under, the minimum legal tread limit in a manner which has never been done before. Viewers watching using VR goggles especially will be far closer to the real-world experience of being out of control, as the braking and steering systems of the car can do nothing to help them avoid an impact in the wet conditions.

"The vulnerability and helplessness a driver feels under these circumstances is something we hope viewers take onboard after watching and that they are encouraged to carry out the regular tyre safety checks to minimise the chances of being involved in a similar incident on the road. 

“As the film concludes, and this year’s Tyre Safety Month reminds Britain’s motorists - Don’t chance it – check it.”