Planning a road trip can be fun for everyone, but there are many things to consider before you start. Unless you attach importance to key pre-roadtrip tire safety precautions, you can put your own life and that of others in danger. Besides, planning can spare you of on-road problems; for instance, if you have a flat tire suddenly in the middle of the night on the freeway, it can be rather inconvenient. Any issue with your car tires will invariably become worse when the car moves at high speeds, and heat builds up in the tires.

To ensure that your vehicle tires are in perfect condition for a long road trip, you should ideally check their pressure every month and inspect them carefully for cracks and wear and tear. You should also check their tread depth and get replacement tires before the existing ones have become completely worn out. When you take these pre-roadtrip tire safety precautions, you can ensure that you have a smooth and trouble-free trip with your loved ones. Here is a step-by-step guide on things to do before going on a long road trip:

• Tire pressure
  Pressure can be a tire’s lifeblood and must be checked every month, not once in a season; it will also ensure that it lasts longer. Tires will lose pressure every day, and underinflation may prove to be dangerous because the tire will flex more than usual, and heat builds up, causing it to malfunction. Moreover, less pressure makes the tires less fuel-efficient; they will wear out much faster. You can see the optimum pressure on stickers attached to the doorjamb of the driver’s car door. Checking pressure is recommended when the tires are cold.
• Tread depth
  You can check the tire’s tread depth using a quarter and penny. It would help if you placed the quarter upside down on the tire’s groove. The distance between the edge of the coin and Washington’s hairline is nearly 4/32 inch, and when you can see entire Washington’s head in a groove, it is best to start looking for replacement tires. You may use the penny to check for any unevenness in the tire; it will indicate improper inflation pressure, misalignment, and aggressive driving.
• Tire sidewalls
  It would help if you looked out for sidewall cracks that may happen because of potholes, sharp objects, or curbs on the streets. These will leave bulges and cuts in your car tires, and when you can spot these, it is better to get the tire replaced.
• Wear and tear
  You should also check for bruises, bumps, and any other damage to tires, which are likely to impact tire pressure levels and performance. Any bubble or bulge may not be easy to identify but it may signal a tire defect or air leak which can be dangerous. If you suspect any defect in the tire, you should immediately swap the tire.
• Alignment
  Before starting on a long trip, you must check the wheel alignment. This should be done during annual inspections without fail, and also for every 12000 miles that the car has run. When the alignment is off, tire longevity and mileage performance are affected. Proper tire alignment will prevent skidding, vibrations, road noise, and unusual tread wear.