During National Tire Safety Week, May 24-30, the Rubber Manufacturers Association is reminding consumers that poorly maintained, underinflated tires not only put them at risk, they also add expenses at the gas pump.

“No road trip should start without first checking tire pressure and inspecting tires for damage and insufficient tread depth,” said Dan Zielinski, RMA senior vice president of public affairs. “Vehicles with underinflated tires burn more gas and have a greater risk of tire damage that may lead to failure. Consumers who are tire smart and maintain tires will help keep their families safe, keep more money in their wallet and help the environment.”

A 2015 RMA survey found that more than 30% of U.S. drivers are less concerned about gas mileage performance since gas prices have dropped over the past year. Fifty percent of drivers ages 18-29 say they are unconcerned with gas mileage performance.

“Tire care shouldn’t take a back seat because of lower gas prices,” Zielinski said. “NTSW is a good time to start a habit of regular, monthly tire maintenance to help promote safety, save money at the gas pump and help tires last.”

Other RMA survey findings include:
• Only 17% of drivers know how to properly check tire pressure.
• One out of three drivers don’t know that tires should be checked “cold” before driving.
• 35% of drivers do not know how to tell if their tires are bald.
• Nearly six out of 10 drivers do not check the tire pressure in their spare tire.
• Four in 10 drivers believe they can tell if a tire is underinflated just by looking at it.
• Half of all drivers don’t know where to find the correct inflation pressure for their vehicle.