I want to hear you all answer yes!  That’s why I’m here!  Recently, the RMA (Rubber Manufacturer’s Association) did a little survey to find out how many US drivers are “tire smart.”  “Define smart,” you say?

According to the RMA, “tire smart” drivers are “those who know to check tire pressure monthly; know to check tires when they are cold (before driving); and know where to find the correct inflation pressure for their vehicle’s tires (a tire information label on the driver’s door or door jamb or in the owner’s manual).”  Now, girls, if you’ve been reading my blog at all, you’re darn near geniuses because we’ve been over these things a million times!  Apparently, more girls (and guys and young people) need to start reading this blog, though.

The study found that only 20 percent of men and 14 percent of women are tire smart.  I can’t just pick on the ladies on this one—seems that the majority of US drivers have a few things to learn when it comes to their tires, and the younger generation needs to add a tire course to their driver’s education curriculum.

Among the older set (age 60 and older), 27 percent are tire smart.  That’s getting better, right?  Sure, but when you think about this next number, you may want to stay off the roads: only 8 percent of drivers age 18 to 39 know how to check their tire pressure the right way  (If you have questions about how to check your tire pressure, see my blog, The Top Ten Things Every Girl Should Know to Save Her Own Butt (Tire Version)) .

Know what happens when you drive around on tires that need air?  You waste fuel, you wear your tires out sooner than you should, and you’re courting fate.  Check out these two factoids from the RMA:

• According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motor vehicle crashes involving tires contribute to 195 fatalities annually.
• The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that properly inflated tires can save about 11 cents a gallon at today’s gas prices.

I think those are pretty impressive statistics!  As Americans, I think it’s safe to say that we could stand to learn a few things about tires and about tire maintenance and safety.  National Tire Safety Week was way back at the beginning of June, but it’s never too late to learn what you need to know about tire safety.  Read this blog, do some research or just come into your nearest RNR store and ask questions!  Keeping your tires properly maintained is about safety, but it’s also about getting the most out of your investment.  Here’s a little something from the RMA to help you remember the basics:

Be Tire Smart – Play Your PART

Pressure: Check tire pressure monthly with a tire gauge and inflate to vehicle manufacturer’s recommended pressure.

Alignment: Misalignment of wheels can cause uneven and rapid tread-wear.

Rotation: Rotate tires every 5,000 to 8,000 miles to help you achieve more uniform wear.

Tread: Advanced and unusual wear can reduce the ability of tread to grip the road in adverse conditions.

Stay safe and see you soon!

Bree

P.S.  If you want to maintain proper tire pressure and make your tires last longer, look into filling your tires with nitrogen.  My blog, “Nitrogen for Tires? What Happened to Plain, Old Air?” will give you all the info you need on nitrogen fill for tires!