Is it dangerous to drive on the highway with underinflated car tires?
2 Answers
Driving on the highway with underinflated car tires is dangerous. Effects of low tire pressure: Low tire pressure increases tire body deformation, making the tire sidewalls prone to cracking. It also causes flexing movements, leading to excessive heat buildup, accelerating rubber aging, fatigue of the cord ply, and cord breakage. Additionally, it increases the tire's contact area with the ground, accelerating shoulder wear. Effects of high tire pressure: Excessive tire pressure overextends the tire cords, reducing the tire body's elasticity. This increases the load on the car during driving, and impacts may cause internal cracks or blowouts. High pressure also accelerates tread wear and reduces puncture resistance.
I've been driving on highways for over a decade, and insufficient tire pressure is absolutely dangerous. At high speeds, when tire pressure is low, the tire deforms severely, increasing the contact area with the road surface, which generates excessive heat from friction and can easily lead to overheating and a blowout. I once witnessed a car blow out on the highway due to low tire pressure—the vehicle instantly lost control, crashed into the guardrail, and nearly rolled over. It was terrifying. Handling also becomes unstable—steering feels sluggish, and the car is prone to skidding or drifting during hard braking. The risks are even greater in rainy conditions or during emergency maneuvers. Additionally, low tire pressure accelerates tire wear and shortens their lifespan. I recommend always checking the tire pressure first with a simple gauge; the standard values are listed on the door label. In summer, you can slightly reduce the pressure to avoid overheating. Safety comes above all else—don’t take it lightly. Make it a habit to check regularly to prevent accidents.
