
When most road users think about vehicle safety, they focus on the brakes, engine, or airbags. While all of these components are mission-critical and need to be kept in good shape, one equally important part tends to go unnoticed: the tires. They’re the only part of your vehicle that touches the road, so their condition directly impacts your safety. Whether you’re driving a car, riding a motorcycle, or pedaling a bicycle, worn tires can lead to dangerous accidents.
In this article, the car accident attorneys at Harris Velázquez Gibbens will go over the importance of regular tire maintenance, show you how to spot worn tires, and explain the risks they pose while you’re on the road. We’ll also share practical tips to keep your tires in top shape and what to do if you’re injured in an accident caused by worn tires.
The Critical Role of Tire Maintenance
When you’re traveling, the tires on your vehicle ensure grip, stability, and control on the road surface. When they’re in good shape, they make it possible for you to accelerate smoothly, handle sharp turns, and stop quickly when needed. Worn-out tires, on the other hand, compromise your road capabilities, and if they aren’t repaired or replaced, you increase the risk of an accident and severe injuries.
Every tire has a lifespan – typically between 50,000 and 75,000 miles, depending on its type and usage. It’s not just mileage that matters, however: age, weather, and driving habits also play a role. As tires wear down, their treads become less effective, reducing traction and increasing the likelihood of accidents.
How Often Should You Check Your Tires?
To stay safe, inspect your tires at least once a month. Frequent checks help you spot problems early and avoid surprises on the road. A quick monthly visual inspection should include:
- Checking Tire Pressure: Use a tire pressure gauge to ensure each tire is inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended level.
- Looking for Visible Damage: Examine your tires for cuts, cracks, or punctures.
- Measuring Tire Tread Depth: Use a tread depth gauge or perform the penny test (Insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln’s head down; if you can see his entire head, it’s time for a new tire).
Taking a few minutes each month to check your tires can save you from expensive repairs and dangerous tire blowouts. It’s a simple habit that offers peace of mind and ensures that your tires are always ready for the road ahead.
Warning Signs of Worn Tires
The effect of worn tires can be subtle at first, but the risks increase as their condition worsens. Watch for these warning signs:
- Tread Wear Indicators: Modern tires have built-in tread wear indicators, which are small bars that become visible when the tread wears down to unsafe levels. If you see these bars across the tire, it’s time for a replacement.
- Cracks, Bulges, and Blisters: Visible cracks, bulges, or blisters in the tire surface indicate structural issues. These flaws can lead to sudden tire blowouts, especially at high speeds.
- Uneven Wear Patterns: If one part of a tire is more worn than another, it could signal misalignment, improper inflation, or suspension problems. Uneven wear affects the tire’s performance and your motor vehicle’s stability.
- Low Tread Depth: Low tread depth reduces traction, especially on wet roads. Use a tread depth gauge to ensure your tires meet the recommended depth of at least 2/32 of an inch.
These are all signals that your tires may no longer provide the safety and reliability you need. Regular inspections allow you to catch these problems before they worsen, giving you the chance to replace your tires and maintain a safe driving experience. Don’t ignore these red flags; your safety and the safety of others depend on it.
Dangers of Worn Tires
Driving or riding with worn tires puts you at risk for several hazards, including:
- Heat Build-Up: Tires generate heat as they roll, and adequate tread depth helps dissipate it. Worn tires can overheat, increasing the chance of a blowout.
- Punctures: Thinner treads are more vulnerable to sharp objects like nails or glass, making punctures more likely.
- Hydroplaning: On wet roads, worn tires struggle to channel water away, increasing the risk of hydroplaning. This occurs when the tire loses contact with the road and slides uncontrollably.
- Air Leakage: Damaged or worn tires may leak air slowly, reducing air pressure and performance and increasing the chance of a flat tire.
The dangers of worn tires are real and can escalate quickly. Don’t let neglect turn a small problem into a major accident: stay proactive about tire care to make sure every drive or ride is a safe one.
Specific Risks for Cars, Motorcycles, and Bicycles
Worn tires impact a wide range of motor vehicle types, and the risks can range from reduced stopping power to total loss of control. No matter how you travel, keeping your tires in good condition can help you avoid accidents.
- Cars and Trucks: Cars rely heavily on tire condition for braking, steering, and overall control. Worn tires increase stopping distance and reduce stability, especially during sharp turns or emergency maneuvers.
- Motorcycles: For motorcycles, tires play an even more critical role. With only two points of contact, worn tires significantly reduce grip, making it harder to corner, brake, or maintain balance.
- Bicycles: Even bicycles aren’t exempt. Worn tires can cause slipping on wet roads or reduce the rider’s ability to stop quickly enough to prevent a bike accident. For cyclists, especially those commuting in traffic, tire maintenance is a matter of life and death.
Preventing Accidents with Best Practices
Taking care of your tires is one of the simplest ways to prevent accidents. Follow these best practices to keep your tires in top condition:
- Rotate Your Tires Regularly: Tires don’t wear evenly, so rotating them every 5,000–8,000 miles helps distribute wear evenly and extends their lifespan.
- Maintain Proper Inflation: Underinflated tires wear faster and generate more heat, while overinflated tires can lead to a harsher ride and uneven wear. Check tire pressure monthly and adjust as needed.
- Choose the Right Tires: Select tires suited to your vehicle, driving habits, and the season. For example, winter tires provide better traction in snow and ice, while all-season tires are versatile for most conditions.
- Know When to Replace Tires: You should replace your tires when the tread depth falls below 2/32 of an inch; the tires are over six years old, and/or you notice cracks, bulges, or damage. Access to spare tires makes it easier to do a quick switch.
What If You’re Injured in an Accident?
Despite your best efforts, accidents can still happen, especially if another driver, motorcyclist, or cyclist neglects their tire maintenance. If you’re injured due to worn tires (whether yours or someone else’s) you may have legal options to recover damages.
An experienced Oregon car accident attorney can help you:
- Determine if poor tire maintenance caused the accident.
- Gather evidence, such as tire inspection reports or expert opinions.
- File a personal injury claim for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
Insurance companies routinely undervalue insurance claims to protect their bottom line. A skilled lawyer will resist any attempt to deny you fair compensation and demand the settlement you need to cover your financial losses.
Get a Free Consultation From an Oregon Car Accident Lawyer
Each time you head out, the condition of your tires is critical to your safety. Regular maintenance, timely replacements, and paying attention to warning signs can reduce the risk of accidents and support a smoother (and safer) ride.
If an accident happens due to worn tires, the team at Harris Velázquez Gibbens, P.C. is here to help. Whether you’re driving a car, riding a motorcycle, or pedaling a bike, you deserve to stay safe on the road. For more information or to schedule a consultation with an experienced attorney, contact us today.