8 safety tips for driving in summer

(Family Features) Summer is often a time of vacation and road trips, which can put extra stress on your vehicle and one of its most important safety components, your tires. Higher road temperatures combined with normal wear and tear – plus increased traffic due to summer travel – can contribute to potential safety risks.

Before you hit the road this summer, consider these tips from the tire experts at your local Discount Tire to stay safe on the road.

1. Check tire pressure regularly
   Low tire pressure can cause poor handling and gas mileage, as well as excessive wear and overloading. Check your tire pressure before every long trip – and at least once a month – as bumps and curves can cause air to be lost. Temperature changes also affect tire pressure. For every 10 degrees change in ambient temperature, tire pressure changes by 1 pound per square inch (PSI).
2. Pay attention to the tire profile
   The tread depth of a tire determines the safe stopping distance. The more tread the tire has, the better it grips the road and the shorter the stopping distance. To check the tread depth yourself, put a penny upside down in a tread groove. If President Lincoln’s head is visible, your tires are worn beyond safety recommendations and it’s time to replace them.
3. Understand that tire age is important
   As rubber ages, it becomes harder and more brittle, which can lead to a higher risk of tire failure. Look for the DOT number on the sidewall to determine the age of your tires. Any tire older than 6 years should be replaced, but experts recommend replacing tires in sets of two or four to ensure even wear. If you need help finding the right tires, Treadwell, Discount Tire’s tire recommendation tool, will help you find the best tires for your vehicle, location and driving habits, using the same data tire experts use in the store.
4. Change tires as needed
   To optimize handling, traction and braking power, tires should be rotated every 6,000 miles or sooner if uneven wear occurs.
5. Keep an eye on your alignment
   Wheel alignment is an important part of car maintenance. It adjusts the direction of your tires to prevent uneven wear and improve steering. If you notice uneven tread wear, your vehicle pulls to one side, the steering wheel is off-center when driving straight, or the steering wheel vibrates, it may be time to have your wheel alignment checked.
6. Looking for a replacement tire
   Check what equipment your vehicle has in case of a flat tire, as many newer vehicles no longer have a spare tire. Some models now include tire inflation kits with puncture protection and air compressors or run-flat tires instead. Also make sure you have a roadside assistance plan in place in case of an emergency, which can help with repairs, replacements or towing.
7. Avoid overloading your vehicle
   When you head off on summer vacation, you’ll probably be lugging gear for your adventures and, of course, people. If you’re worried about the extra weight, check the manufacturer’s load recommendations to make sure you’re not putting too much strain on the tires.
8. Always be one step ahead of the weather
   While you’re checking and maintaining your tires, you should also look into other accessories before the summer weather hits. Wiper blades should be replaced approximately every 12 months, or sooner if severe streaking occurs during use.

For more tire safety tips and products, visit DiscountTire.com. You can also reduce wait times at the store.