DON'T become a statistic - that is the message from the Highways Agency after it revealed more than 1,800 tyre-related incidents took place on motorways and major roads in the south last winter.

Incidents included punctures and blow outs between October and December.

Nationwide where were 11,057 tyre-related incidents on motorways and major A roads last winter, with 1,892 coming in the south east.

Now the organisation is urging drivers to ensure tyres are ready for wet weather to mark Tyre Safety Month, which is organised by the safety group Tyre Safe.

Motorists are advised to check tyres have enough tread, which can be done using a 20 pence piece.

If you see the outer rim of the coin when inserted into the main grooves of the tyre then they should be checked by a tyre professional, the organisation warned.

Simon Sheldon-Wilson, Highways Agency director of customer operations, said: “It's important to ensure that your tyres are ready for winter and that includes the kind of wet weather we saw last year. By checking your tyres at least once a month, you can make sure you have enough tread to control your vehicle in wet conditions and avoid aquaplaning at high speeds which could lead to disastrous consequences.

“Last year was the wettest winter on record. Ahead of any wet weather we may encounter this winter, we're reminding drivers to check that their tyres' tread depth is deep enough to manage driving in wet conditions.

“Having adequate tread depth means the tyres will be able to handle wet weather much better, remaining in control and reducing the real risk of aquaplaning.”