Why is it important to maintain a minimum tread depth in tires?

Maintaining a minimum tread depth in tires is crucial for ensuring proper traction and overall safety while driving. Tread depth plays a significant role in a tire's ability to grip the road, especially in adverse weather conditions such as rain, snow, or ice. Adequate tread depth helps channel water away from the tire’s surface, reducing the risk of hydroplaning. Additionally, good tread depth provides better handling, stability, and braking performance, all of which are essential for the safety of the driver and other road users.

Tires that are worn down below the minimum tread depth can compromise the handling of the vehicle and increase stopping distances, which can lead to accidents. Hence, maintaining the correct tread depth is a key aspect of vehicle maintenance that directly impacts safety on the road.