USTMA Praises Introduction of Bipartisan Congressional Resolution Honoring National Tire Safety Week

WASHINGTON, June 23, 2022 – The U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association (USTMA) is applauding the introduction of H.Res. 1178 by Congressional Tire Caucus co-chairs Reps. Jim Cooper (D-Tenn.) and Richard Hudson (R-N.C.). The bipartisan resolution supports the designation of June 27 through July 3, 2022, as National Tire Safety Week in the United States, and its goals to educate American motorists about the importance of proper tire care and maintenance. Reps. Tim Ryan (D-Ohio) and Ralph Norman (R-S.C.) also signed onto the bill as co-sponsors.

“Because tires are the only part of a car that touches the road, they are one of the most important safety devices on any vehicle. So proper tire care and maintenance is something USTMA and our members promote all year long,” said Anne Forristall Luke, president and CEO of USTMA. “Each year, we use National Tire Safety Week as an opportunity to amplify the message of tire safety with partners across the nation We couldn’t be happier that this bipartisan group of members of Congress have joined us in promoting this important initiative that not only helps keep drivers safe but can also cut fuel costs and help the environment.”

Proper tire inflation can help tires last longer and improve fuel economy, which is especially important as consumers are feeling the impact of high gas prices at the pump. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), drivers can save as much as 11 cents per gallon on fuel by properly inflating their tires. Tire maintenance, such as rotation, balance and alignment, can help tires last longer, which can extend the average life of a tire by 4,700 miles, also saving money in the longer term.

U.S. tire manufacturers recommend drivers check tire pressure at least monthly, regularly check tire tread depth and ensure their tires are rotated and properly aligned. Proper maintenance and periodic inspections by a tire professional are essential for optimum performance and service life of tires and can help ensure lower overall environmental impacts.

To help motorists remember these important tire maintenance actions, USTMA encourages drivers to remember the acronym “P.A.R.T.”—Pressure, Alignment, Rotation, and Tread. Tire safety essentials are especially important this year as significant numbers of motorists are back in their cars embarking on summer road trips.

For more information, visit www.ustires.org/safety.