Hey, It's Tire Safety Month!

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    You may have remembered when I partnered with Cooper Tire
   last May, where I learned the importance of a good tire. See that post HERE.
   
   

   

   
   Checking your tires before you travel this winter is of the utmost importance, and it's pretty simple to do.
   
   
   The White House announced that Dec. 9-Jan. 9 is Tire Safety Month, an initiative supported by the Rubber Manufacturers Association, all of its tire manufacturer members and others. The initiative is designed to help educate motorists about the importance of tire maintenance to promote safety and better fuel economy.

“We’re excited that tire maintenance has received attention from the highest level in the federal government,” said Dan Zielinski, RMA senior vice president, public affairs. “Too many motorists ignore even this simple, basic maintenance task that means so much to helping ensure vehicle safety for our families.”

RMA recommends simple steps for motorists to Be Tire Smart when checking tire pressure:

• Check tire pressure monthly and before long trips.
  
• Use the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended tire pressure found on a label on the driver’s
  door or owner’s manual.
  
• Check tires when cold – before you drive. Driving causes tires to warm which increases
  inflation pressure temporarily.
  RMA also recommends that motorists inspect tire tread for damage and sufficient depth. Worn out tires are dangerous, especially in wet, wintry weather. A simple and inexpensive test can determine whether tires should be replaced.
  

• Take a penny and turn it upside down so Lincoln’s head points down.
  
• Insert penny into tread groove.
  
• If all of Lincoln’s head is exposed, the tire must be replaced because it’s been worn down to
  2/32nds of an inch or less.
  Zielinski said, “Checking tire pressure and tread depth each month will take just a few minutes. These fast, easy tire care tips will help travelers get to their destination safely and enjoy the holidays with family and loved ones.” 
  

  
  

  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  Here are some startling statistics: 

  
  

  Tire Safety Statistics:
   

  Rubber Manufacturers Association (RMA) Tire Pressure/Tread Depth Survey (2014)

  • 69% of vehicles have at least one under inflated tire.

  • 17% of vehicles have at least one tire under inflated by at least 8 pounds per square inch (psi).

  • 12% of vehicles have at least one bald tire

  
  

  Rubber Manufacturers Association (RMA) Online Survey (2013)

  • 83% of US motorists do not properly check tire pressure.

  • 40% of drivers do not know that tires should be checked “cold” before driving.

  • 48% of drivers know where to find the correct inflation pressure for their vehicle.

  • 52% of drivers wrongly believe that the correct pressure is listed on the tire sidewall.

  • 52% of drivers do not know how to tell if their tires are bald.

   
   
  So don't be a statistic....put season-appropriate tires on your vehicle, and check your tires before each trip. It very well could save your life.