Father's Mission Addresses Overlooked Tire Safety Threat Following Son's Preventable Death

The National Transportation Safety Board reports approximately 33,000 car crashes annually in the United States stem directly from tire-related issues including tread separation, blowouts, worn or bald tires, and improper inflation. These preventable incidents contribute to more than 700 fatalities each year, highlighting a significant but often overlooked automotive safety concern.

Following the tragic loss of his 19-year-old son Jackson in a preventable tire-related crash, Georgia father Alex Bebiak established the Road Ready Foundation with a mission to educate teenagers and parents about basic tire safety and the importance of regular inspections. Bebiak's personal tragedy has transformed into a nationwide educational initiative during National Teen Driver Safety Week in October and beyond.

Current statistics reveal alarming gaps in teen driver awareness and behavior regarding tire maintenance. Based on observations from high school visits, the Road Ready Foundation estimates three out of every ten teenagers drive on unsafe tires. Michelin research further indicates 43% of teens have never checked their tire tread depth, while 32% have never verified proper tire pressure.

The foundation promotes a simple three-step approach to tire safety through what they call the three "I's": inspect the tread, inflate/check tire pressure, and install properly and in a timely manner. One practical tool they advocate is the quarter test, which provides a visual and straightforward method for determining if tire tread depth remains at safe levels.

This safety initiative has gained media attention, including coverage from the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, reflecting growing recognition of tire safety as a critical component of driver education. The foundation's work addresses a preventable public safety issue that affects not only teen drivers but all motorists who share the road with improperly maintained vehicles.

Tire-related crashes represent a significant portion of preventable automotive incidents nationwide. The combination of proper education, regular inspections, and basic maintenance knowledge could substantially reduce the annual toll of 33,000 tire-related crashes and more than 700 associated fatalities. As vehicle technology advances in many areas, this foundation emphasizes that fundamental tire safety remains a crucial, life-saving practice for drivers of all experience levels.