What is the potential risk of driving with insufficient tire tread?

Driving with insufficient tire tread poses a significant risk because it greatly reduces the effectiveness of braking and handling. Adequate tire tread is essential for providing traction, especially in adverse weather conditions such as rain, snow, or ice. Insufficient tread means the tires have less grip on the road, which can lead to longer stopping distances and a greater chance of losing control of the vehicle during maneuvers.

When tires are worn down and lack sufficient tread depth, they cannot properly channel water away from the tire's surface, increasing the risk of hydroplaning. This loss of traction can severely impact a driver's ability to steer or stop, making it critical to maintain tires with adequate tread depth for safety and control.

In contrast, improved traction, increased fuel efficiency, and better handling in cornering are all associated with adequate tire tread, not insufficient tread. Therefore, understanding the importance of tire maintenance, including checking for proper tread depth, is essential for safe driving practices.