Tires and Car Accidents

The Correlation Between Tires and Car Accidents

When it comes to safety on the road, tires play a critical role. While many people focus on engine performance or maintenance, tire status is often overlooked. Tires are the only point of contact between the vehicle and the road. In fact, tire-related problems are among the leading causes of car accidents. The Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) describe tires as your vehicle’s first line of defense and emphasize their role in safety. Dr. Deryk Harting, a team favorite at one of the highest rated car accident medical doctor facilities in Florida, explains how tires affect safety on the road.

One of the most significant factors in tire performance is the type of tire. Tires are designed for specific conditions. For example, summer tires perform very well on dry roads and provide better grip in warm conditions. However, they are not suitable for winter driving. In cold weather, summer tires lose their flexibility, reducing traction and increasing stopping distances.

On the other hand, winter tires are made for cold temperatures, ice, and snow. They have deeper treads and a special rubber compound (typically called a cold weather rubber compound or silica enhanced rubber compound) that remains flexible in freezing conditions. Using winter tires in warmer weather can be dangerous too. These tires are softer, and they wear out faster on hot pavement. Their tread is also designed to grip snow, not dry asphalt, so using them on dry roads can diminish handling and braking.

All-season tires aim to balance performance in different weather conditions. While they are versatile, they cannot match the performance of summer or winter specialized tires. In regions with severe winters or heavy rains, relying on all-season tires may not provide enough grip which can increase the chances of hydroplaning, skidding, or losing control in bad weather.

Even the best tires can fail if they are not properly maintained. Tire condition is just as important as tire type. Over time, tires naturally wear down. Worn tires with shallow treads cannot channel water away effectively, making them more likely to hydroplane in wet conditions and increase the risk of a car accident.

Another important factor is tire pressure. Maintaining the correct tire pressure is crucial for both safety and tire longevity. Under inflated tires have more surface contact, but the contact is uneven, which can lead to poor handling, increased tire wear, reduced fuel efficiency, and may blowout due to overheating. Over inflated tires, on the other hand, reduce the contact area which can lead to a rougher ride, less traction, and greater risk of losing control.

Even if a tire looks fine on the surface, age can significantly affect its performance. Rubber degrades over time, causing tires to become brittle. Many tire manufacturers recommend replacing tires every 6 to 10 years, depending on their condition and mileage. Even if the tread appears intact, old tires are more likely to undergo cracking or blowing out.

Tires that are too old also lose their ability to grip the road. This is especially problematic in emergency situations when control is essential. Driving on old tires increases the likelihood of accidents, particularly at higher speeds or in adverse weather conditions.

Regular tire checks are key. Drivers should inspect their tires for visible signs of damage, such as cuts, cracks, or bulges. Tread depth is another critical factor. A tread wear gauge can help determine if tires are safe to drive on. Tires that are worn below 2/32 of an inch in depth should be replaced.

In addition to regular visual checks, drivers should make sure that their tires are properly balanced and aligned. Misaligned tires can cause uneven wear which affects the vehicle’s stability and increases the risk of accidents. Rotating your tires at every 5,000 to 7,500 miles helps them to wear evenly and extend tire lifespan.

The condition and type of your tires directly affect driving safety. Tires that are poorly maintained or not appropriate for current driving conditions can increase the likelihood of accidents. Drivers should ensure they choose the right tires for their environment, maintain correct tire pressure, and replace tires as they wear out or age. Investing in quality tires and performing routine maintenance is one of the best ways to prevent accidents and maintain safety on the road.

— This article is written by Deryk Harting, DC, one of the members of Chambers Medical Group’s team of car accident chiropractors who offer a variety of treatments and therapies ranging from diagnostic testing to various soft tissue therapies for car accidents and injuries in Florida.

— This article is written by Deryk Harting, DC, one of the members of Chambers Medical Group’s team of car accident chiropractors who offer a variety of treatments and therapies ranging from diagnostic testing to various soft tissue therapies for car accidents and injuries in Florida.