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When is a tire considered illegal for driving?

  1. If the tread is less than one-quarter of an inch deep

  2. If the tread is less than one-sixteenth of an inch deep

  3. If it has visible cracks

  4. If it is more than five years old

The correct answer is: If the tread is less than one-sixteenth of an inch deep

A tire is considered illegal for driving when the tread is less than one-sixteenth of an inch deep. The tread depth is crucial for maintaining adequate traction, especially in adverse weather conditions. When the tread wear reaches this level, it significantly increases the risk of hydroplaning on wet surfaces and reduces grip on icy or snowy roads. Legal standards for tire tread depth are established to promote road safety, as inadequate tread can lead to longer stopping distances and diminished control of the vehicle. Although tires with cracks or those that are older than a specified age might indicate diminished safety, the specific legal threshold regarding tread depth is key to ensuring optimal performance and safety while driving.