Watch Out for Worn Tires

Check the oil, check the engine, make sure the transmission is okay; these are some of the most common issues vehicle owners focus on when maintaining their cars, trucks, and SUVs.

But what about the tires? Many of us routinely overlook their condition and upkeep because worn tires aren't immediately noticeable. If there is a problem with your transmission, you'll notice it real quick. The same goes with your engine. Tires are trickier since you may not notice an underinflated or worn out tire until it is too late.

A prime example is a recent car wreck that took the lives of a young couple and two children in Mineral Wells, West Virginia (WV). The car they were in reportedly had worn tires and when they made a turn around a sharp bend, the vehicle suddenly crossed into the other lane and slammed into another vehicle, according to the West Virginia Gazette. The couple and their children died at the scene of the crash.

There's a good chance the young couple had no idea their car was operating on worn tires. Again, it's an issue you may not notice until you encounter a sharp turn or fail to stop immediately on slick roads.

Every time you take your car in to get an oil change or maintenance, request you have your tires inspected. Many repair and oil change shops will do this inspection for a nominal fee, while others may check for free. You should also check your tire pressure at least once a month.

These checkups may seem like a hassle, especially if you think your tires are in tip-top condition, but a routine check of your tires could mean the difference between getting home safe or winding up in a serious car wreck.