Goodyear Poll Finds Rough Roads Rattle Canadians

Potholes, Roads That Need Repair Are Chief Concerns for Drivers

TORONTO, May 15, 2013 /CNW/ - Rain, fog and flooding can often wreak havoc for motorists on the roads during the spring driving season. While these annual springtime obstacles can drive motorists mad, there is one particular challenge that is of top concern for Canadians. A new poll by Goodyear Canada reveals that nearly four in five drivers who have driving worries this spring are concerned about potholes (79 per cent) and roads that need repair (77 per cent).

And those worries seem well-founded, as 95 per cent of Canadian motorists have had previous experience driving over potholes, with over half (51 per cent) having incurred tire or wheel damage as a result.

The poll data also suggests that potholes are a considerable safety hazard, as almost seven in ten (68 per cent) of those drivers who have taken specific actions to avoid potholes admit they've quickly swerved into another lane, while 32 per cent have reported that potholes have affected them inside the car (i.e., spilling a drink or hitting their head).

"Superior traction and handling are crucial when trying to reach your destination safely, especially in the spring season when road conditions are particularly challenging," said Gus Liotta, general manager at Goodyear Canada. "The unpredictable nature of the roads in the spring sometimes requires fast reactions, and Goodyear's Assurance ComforTred Touring provides confident handling in challenging weather and road conditions. This may come in handy when attempting to avoid potholes, and the tire's additional layer of cushioning can help smooth out those smaller road irregularities."

There are simple things drivers can do this spring to stay safe on the roads and tackle difficult road conditions:

• Awareness

Be aware of others on the road and use caution when driving on roads in need of repair. If you drive over a pothole that has potentially caused damage, always check the other lanes first before signaling and pulling over.

• Visual Inspection

If you drive over a dangerous pothole, tire or wheel damage can occur. The next time you check your air pressure, scan your tread for any sharp objects that may have punctured your tires and check for uneven tread wear patterns.

• Proper Inflation

Maintaining proper air pressure is the single most important thing drivers can do for their tires. It is important to check your air pressure regularly, to make sure your tires are neither overinflated nor underinflated. (Look in the vehicle owner's manual, on the driver's side door jamb or in the glove box to find the proper air pressure for your tires.)

• Balance and Alignment

Having your tires balanced and your vehicle properly aligned is important not only to the longevity of the tires, but to the safety of the driver and the performance of the car. Unbalanced tires may cause road vibration, which may lead to driver fatigue, premature tire wear and unnecessary wear to your vehicle's suspension. With unpredictable spring weather, a tire that provides enhanced traction and handling is crucial. Consider these options:

• Goodyear Assurance ComforTred Touring: This tire offers confident traction in changing weather conditions and features Dual Comfort Zones in the tread and sidewall that help provide, on average, 20 per cent more cushion than standard passenger tires for a smooth, comfortable ride.*
• Goodyear Assurance TripleTred All-Season: This tire adapts to changing weather conditions (wet, dry and snow) and offers ultra wet traction. It achieves, on average, 21% better wet traction than the leading competitor.**
• Goodyear Assurance Fuel Max: This tire offers confident all-season traction plus helps save up to 4,000 kilometres of fuel over the life of a set of four tires.***

For more information on the Goodyear Assurance family of tires visit: www.goodyear.ca.

About Goodyear Canada
Goodyear Canada Inc. is a leading manufacturer of tires for automotive and commercial/industrial markets. The company has operations and offices in Ontario, Quebec and Alberta, in addition to a national network of committed independent retailers. Goodyear Canada is a wholly-owned subsidiary of The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company of Akron, Ohio.

*Source: Comparison of industry data for T-, H- and V-speed rated tires vs. ComforTred Touring tires.

**Based on internal wet traction test results of the Assurance TripleTred All-Season and Michelin Defender using size 215/60R16.

***Up to 4,000 km based on a 4% fuel economy improvement, on 105,000 km Tread Life Limited Warranty, as compared to the standard Goodyear Assurance tire tested on P195/65R15 size – 2008 Honda Civic. Actual results may vary based on when tires are replaced, driving and road conditions, and proper tire maintenance.

SOURCE: Goodyear Canada Inc.

Andrew Testa, 973-588-2000, [email protected]

http://www.goodyear.ca