Congress Backs 'National Tire Safety Week' to Cut Accidents and Save on Gas

This Congressional resolution officially throws support behind designating the week of June 30 through July 4, 2025, as "National Tire Safety Week." Unlike bills that change laws or spending, this is essentially Congress saying, "Hey, pay attention to this, it’s important." The goal is simple: educate American drivers on proper tire care and maintenance to reduce accidents, injuries, and fatalities caused by tire failure.

The Real-World Cost of Ignoring Your Tires

Think of your tires as the four patches of contact between your two-ton vehicle and the road. This resolution highlights that simple maintenance steps—like checking your tire pressure when the tires are "cold" (meaning the car hasn't been driven for a few hours)—are crucial. Why should you care? Under-inflated tires are a leading cause of blowouts, which can obviously lead to serious accidents. But beyond safety, keeping your tires properly inflated saves you money at the pump. A soft tire increases rolling resistance, making your engine work harder and burning more fuel. For someone commuting every day, this small change adds up quickly in savings.

Your Monthly Maintenance Checklist

The resolution backs the goals of the US Tire Manufacturers Association, which boils down tire maintenance into a few actionable checks. First, check the pressure monthly—you find the correct number on the sticker inside your driver's side door jamb, not the number stamped on the tire itself. Second, look for damage: cuts, bulges, or cracks mean you need to see a professional immediately. Third, check your tread depth. If you can see all of President Lincoln’s head when you stick a penny upside down into the tread groove, it’s probably time for new tires. This isn't just about avoiding a ticket; good tread is what keeps you from hydroplaning on a rainy highway.

Encouraging Public Awareness

Since this is a non-binding resolution, its impact is entirely focused on awareness. It encourages the public to participate in events and activities during the designated week and, more importantly, to learn these basic maintenance tips and share them. The practical takeaway here is that Congress is giving a nod to a public safety campaign that directly benefits every single driver. For busy people juggling work and family, taking five minutes once a month to check the tires is a small investment that pays off big in safety and fuel efficiency.