Tires are the Most Important Safety Feature on Your Car

Are tires really the most important safety feature on a car? Yes! Tires might even be more important than air bags. Why? Because tires prevent accidents while air bags protect you during an accident. In fact, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration tells us that several preventable factors can and do lead to car crashes, which lead to insurance claims.
cars in traffic

Of the vehicles in the study, 10 percent of those with underinflated tires had an accident. So, if you have a car that warns you about underinflated tires, don't ignore the warning. If you don't have a car that gives you a warning, have your tire pressure checked every month.

Of the vehicles in the study, 26 percent with low tread were in accidents. Low tread can lead to several problems while driving. Tires with low tread might blowout while you are driving and are more likely to hydroplane.

Of the vehicles in the study, 45 percent of SUVs with any tire problem rolled over. That's a high percentage and should tell all of us with SUVs to get the tires regularly checked.

All of that tells us that tires are important, but you probably already knew that. However, they can be expensive and if you are like most people, you want to get every mile you can out of your tires. So, we thought you would like some tips to prolong the life of your tires without risking your vehicle or anybody in it.

If your car vibrates at higher speeds, or if the steering wheel is vibrating at any speed, get the tires checked. They might be out of alignment or unbalanced. Getting them rotated and aligned will help you evenly wear the tread on a tire and will make them last longer.
Have your tires checked for proper inflation, especially when the weather changes. Temperature changes will affect your tire pressure. Keeping them at the recommended pressure will help you evenly wear the tread. There are many places that will check the pressure and add air for free, especially oil change businesses.
Every time you have your oil changed, ask about having your tires rotated. This too helps ensure you wear the tread evenly.
Try to avoid potholes and road debris. Holes and objects can knock your tires out of alignment and the debris can include nails that will puncture your tires.

Our challenge to you is to take care of your tires, the most important safety feature on your car. It will lengthen the life of the tires and help prevent accidents.

Your safety is our priority. Call Overbay Insurance Services at 828-452-4699 for more information on auto insurance.

Posted 11:22 AM

Tags: auto insurance

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