One potential vehicle safety problem in the U.S., an expert recently told Property Casualty 360, is the lack of clear guidance and standards regarding tire longevity.

Like most parts, tires are subject to degradation over time, which can increase the likelihood of tire failure. Expert Gregory Quan wrote that tires may last from 60,000 to 100,000 miles while remaining safely functional, but drivers may not know how to check or be aware of the effect use has on tires.

Because rubber oxidizes and hardens over time, according to Quan, they may become increasingly brittle and prone to tread and belt separations, especially in hot and dry climates. This deterioration may not be visibly apparent, so drivers will not necessarily have any incentive to take a closer look and evaluate their vehicle safety.

This can be particularly problematic, according to Quan, with unused tires that have been stored for some time. The lack of use does not prevent climate from affecting the tire, but likely causes motorists to regard it as new and thus safe to use.

Higher auto insurance rates, injury and inconvenience are among the potential consequences of even relatively minor car accidents, so drivers are advised to spend some time caring for their vehicle. The lack of industry standards and guidance concerning how long tires should be used may be a difficulty. According to experts, motorists should also be careful if buying resale tires, even unused ones.