Proper tire inflation vital in summer

Checking tire pressure is important all year-round, but it’s especially critical during the summer when hot weather and underinflated tires can become a dangerous combination.

Recent research by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) shows that hot weather can impact the tire aging process. High temperatures can cause tires to lose their treads or come apart, particularly if they are low on air because the internal heat magnifies the effects of high air and pavement temperatures.

“Checking tires is particularly critical during the summer when roads are hot and families are putting a lot of miles on their cars with their vacation plans,” said Nicole Nason, NHTSA administrator. “Overloaded vehicles, underinflated tires and hot weather can all combine to possibly turn a family vacation into a horrific nightmare.”

F ew motorists take the time to check the condition of their tires. A tire industry survey found 85 percent of drivers fail to properly check tire pressure. NHTSA estimates that crashes associated with tire problems take approximately 660 lives each year and injure 33,000 people.

Check your car’s tire pressure monthly because most tires naturally lose air over time and as the ambient temperature changes. Underinflated tires are not only dangerous but they decrease a vehicle’s fuel economy. The correct pressure for your tire is listed on the tire placard, typically located in the vehicle’s doorway, and not what is listed on the tire itself. Visit www.safercar.gov for more details.

Enter contest for New England trip

Baseball and Sprint Cup Series racing are two of the most important sporting events in New England. AAA is bringing both together for a special promotion this summer.

AAA is offering a chance to win an exclusive prize package that includes a trip to legendary Fenway Park for the Sept. 13 game and a V.I.P. experience at the Sept. 14 race in New Hampshire. David Ragan, driver of the No. 6 AAA Ford Fusion, is scheduled to accompany the winners to Fenway Park.

The “Races and Bases” sweepstakes is presented by AAA Mobile®, AAA’s award-winning, location-based application for mobile phones. AAA members (and non-members) can visit AAA.com/AAAmobile through Aug. 18 to enter for a chance to win this trip. No purchase necessary.