A new federal program aimed at reducing tire-related crashes will launch an app update later this year to inform consumers if their specific tire brands are recalled.
Called "TireWise," the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration campaign is intended to help drivers choose and care for their tires better, Edmunds.com reported.
"Safety is our top priority and following these simple guidelines will help prevent needless deaths and injuries every year," U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx said of the campaign in a statement on Tuesday, as quoted by Edmunds.
When the NHTSA updates its SaferCar app for iOS and Android, the mobile app will let users receive alerts if their specific tires are recalled. They will also be able to submit complaints about any tire issues through their connected devices.
Around 200 deaths each year are the result of tire-related crashes, while approximately 11,000 such accidents occur in all.
A common problem is when tires are underinflated. The new program is intended to educate consumers about common tire mistakes as well as to give them information about the correct type, size, and rating for the tires they need.
Additionally, the campaign will feature information on wear to tire tread and the effects of high temperatures, Edmunds reported.
The program's materials will be showcased on SaferCar.gov and will also be available to all U.S. tire retailers and manufacturers.
"Working with retailers and tire manufacturers allows us to reach the consumers at the time they are making these critical decisions, which is essential in building public awareness of tire-safety issues," David Friedman, NHTSA acting administrator, said in a statement. "Since the implementation of NHTSA's new tire standards, we've seen a significant decrease in tire-related fatalities, and we look forward to working with retailers, manufacturers and other partners in the industry to continue improving traffic safety."
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