I've never skimped on tyres,gents. Just too dangerous. This wasn't a question of just being legal - there were actually 6mm of tread minimum on all tyres. I sought advice because I replace tyres early as a matter of course. Your words of caution are well noted!
Speaking of skids and the like, I once went through a red light sideways-on. Fortunately it was 2 a.m. I also once managed a six-turn pirouette. Mind you, this was in Canada on frozen rain!