What is one of the main risks of having worn tires?

Worn tires significantly reduce a vehicle's stopping ability due to the diminished tread depth. Tread plays a crucial role in providing grip on the road, which is essential for effective braking. As tires wear down, they lose their ability to channel water away during rainy conditions, increasing the risk of hydroplaning. Additionally, worn tires can lead to longer stopping distances, which can be especially dangerous in emergency situations. Maintaining adequate tread depth ensures that a vehicle can respond appropriately when the brakes are applied, thus enhancing overall safety while driving.

Other options, such as improved fuel efficiency or enhanced traction, do not hold true in the context of worn tires. In fact, worn tires can lead to decreased fuel efficiency and traction, particularly in adverse weather, which underscores the importance of regularly inspecting and replacing tires as needed.