During a pre-trip inspection, what is a sign that the tires may not be safe?

During a pre-trip inspection, one of the most critical aspects is assessing the safety and condition of the tires. Uneven tread wear or low air pressure is a clear indicator that the tires may not be safe for operation.

Uneven tread wear suggests that there may be issues with alignment, suspension, or inflation, which can compromise the vehicle's handling and increase the risk of tire failure. Low air pressure can lead to overheating and blowouts, as well as poor traction and increased stopping distances. Both of these signs are important red flags that should not be overlooked, as they significantly impact road safety and vehicle performance.

In contrast, bright colors on the tire surface do not provide relevant information about the tire's safety or functionality. The absence of any visible damage might give a false sense of security, as tires can still be unsafe despite appearing intact. Similarly, a new tire smell does not indicate safety; it's simply a characteristic of new rubber. Thus, the focus should always be on the functional aspects, like tread condition and air pressure, to ensure safe driving conditions.