Much of your driving safety balances on the tires. They are the only thing in contact with the ground, and a problem there could make driving much more dangerous.
Here are some things you can do to keep your tires and thus yourself and others safe.
1. Check the tread
All tires come with wear indicators to show you when they need changing, but you will only see these if you actively look. Once a week, make a point of taking a close look at your tires to check the tread, among other things. Remember, there is no harm in replacing them early, either.
2. Check the pressure
There is a correct pressure for your tires to have. This can vary depending on the load you carry. See your owner’s manual for details. Incorrect pressure can lead to premature wear and less grip.
3. Check for nails and other foreign objects
Tires can easily pick up things such as nails or bits of metal that can eventually work their way deeper into the tire and puncture it. Spotting the object early gives you the chance to get it removed, reducing the chance you suffer a blowout at high speed.
4. Check the nuts
The nuts that hold your wheels on need the occasional check. It has been known for garages to forget to tighten them properly after changing a wheel, which could be disastrous.
5. Rotate and balance the tires
You should rotate your tires at certain intervals to even out the wear – see your owner’s manual for details. You can have a garage do this, and they can also balance the wheels to help avoid uneven wear and increase safety.
Keeping your tires in good order is crucial to safety. If you are ever involved in a crash, it is worth taking a look at the other vehicle’s tires. You might be able to find a clue as to why they lost control or were unable to stop in time.