Getting stuck on the side of the road missing the one tool needed or finding a dead cell phone when it’s imperative to get a hold of someone for help can be the most frustrating thing ever. To help avoid these problems here are a few tips for tire safety to keep from ending up broken down on the side of the road because of a flat or something else.
Consistent Tire Rotations
Always make sure that the tires are rotated on the car. It is supposed to be done every 5-7 thousand miles. Most people don’t do this because it’s something that slips peoples minds but that can mean extending the life of the tires by a lot and can even mean the difference between making it to a tire shop and being stuck in the middle of the highway if an emergency occurs.
Keep a close eye on Tire Pressure
In conjunction to the first tip make sure to check the tire pressure on a regular basis. The tire pressure should be check about once a week to keep the tires at the pressure that they need to be. Now in the winter it is better to check them twice a week due to the fact that cold makes things contract and with the up and down temperatures that a lot of places have it is always better to be safe than sorry.
Keep Fix-a-Flat in the trunk
Fix-a-Flat or other off brand types can be a life saver. Especially in cases where the donut tire is already on one side and then another goes flat. This type of things sprays into the tire and if used properly gives the driver enough time to get to a tire shop. It is also helpful in cases where the driver is long distance away from anything because a tire fixed with that can be driven up to 100 miles safely.
Check tire tread
The tread on a tire is something that should be looked after often and paid very close attention to. Tire tread means the difference between slowing down on an icy road and smashing into the truck that already came to a full stop. The best way to do it is to check the tire tread at least once a week. The easiest way if someone does not understand tread measurements is to grab a penny. If it is stuck in and Lincoln’s head is not visible the tread is still good. However if Lincoln’s head is visible it is time to change those tires ASAP. The lower the tread the less traction on the road and the more dangerous it can be for the driver and other people on the road.
Remember tire safety is one of the most important things that can be controlled by the driver and it is the best place to start learning for new drivers. They can be the most simple thing to take care of as long as they are taken care of well. Rotate them, check the pressure, and check the tread often.
