South Carolina Driver's Permit Practice Exam

What are three things that well-worn tires can cause?

1. Hydroplaning, increased stopping distance, difficult turning

2. Faster acceleration, longer life, better grip

3. Better fuel efficiency, shorter stopping distance, easy handling

4. More comfort, lower noise, better traction

The correct answer is: Hydroplaning, increased stopping distance, difficult turning

Well-worn tires can significantly impact vehicle performance and safety in several ways. Hydroplaning occurs when tires lose contact with the road due to water on the surface, which is more likely to happen with tires that have worn tread. This reduced tread depth diminishes the tire's ability to channel water away and maintain grip. Additionally, well-worn tires have an increased stopping distance because the tread is essential for creating necessary friction with the road. As the tread wears down, the tires are less effective at slowing down the vehicle in a timely manner, which can be particularly dangerous in emergency situations. Finally, turning can become more difficult with worn tires. The reduced tread affects how much grip the tires have on the road, leading to potential loss of control while navigating turns. This can increase the risk of skidding or sliding, especially in wet or slippery conditions. These factors underscore the importance of maintaining tire tread for overall vehicle safety.