Father's Mission to Prevent Teen Tire-Related Crashes Gains National Attention

The National Transportation Safety Board reports that approximately 33,000 car crashes each year in the United States are directly linked to tire-related issues, contributing to over 700 fatalities annually. These preventable incidents stem from problems including tread separation, blowouts, worn or bald tires, and improper inflation.

After tragically losing his 19-year-old son Jackson in a preventable tire-related crash, Georgia father Alex Bebiak created the Road Ready Foundation with a mission to educate teens and parents about basic tire safety and the importance of regular inspections. The foundation's work comes at a critical time as National Teen Driver Safety Week approaches in October.

Research conducted by the foundation reveals alarming statistics about teen driving habits. Based on observations at high schools visited by the foundation, three out of 10 teenagers are driving on unsafe tires. Additional data from Michelin shows that 43% of teens have never checked their tire tread depth, and 32% have never checked tire pressure.

The Road Ready Foundation promotes a simple three-step approach to tire safety known as the three "I's": inspect the tread, inflate/check tire pressure, and install properly and in a timely manner. One practical tool the foundation recommends is the quarter test, which provides a visual and easy method to determine if tire tread is at a safe depth.

The foundation's work has gained media attention, including coverage from the Atlanta Journal-Constitution at https://www.ajc.com. The organization provides educational resources and visual materials to help spread awareness about this critical safety issue that affects millions of young drivers and their families nationwide.

The significance of this initiative extends beyond individual families to broader public safety concerns. With tire-related crashes representing a substantial portion of annual traffic incidents, improved tire maintenance education could potentially save hundreds of lives each year and prevent thousands of injuries. The foundation's focus on teenage drivers addresses a particularly vulnerable demographic that often lacks experience in vehicle maintenance and safety protocols.

As the foundation continues its educational outreach, the message remains clear: regular tire inspections and proper maintenance are essential components of vehicle safety that can prevent tragedies. The organization's work serves as both a memorial to Alex Bebiak's son and a practical solution to a widespread safety problem affecting drivers across the country.