What should you check for on the tires?

Checking the tires is a critical aspect of a pre-trip inspection because they are essential for safe vehicle operation. The correct focus is on ensuring that there is adequate tread depth, proper inflation, and signs of damage or wear.

Adequate tread depth is vital for traction, especially in adverse weather conditions. Insufficient tread can lead to hydroplaning or losing control of the vehicle. Proper inflation is also essential; under-inflated or over-inflated tires can affect handling, fuel efficiency, and can lead to tire blowouts. Additionally, checking for signs of damage, such as cuts, bulges, or irregular wear, is crucial to ensuring the tires are safe to use. Any of these issues could severely compromise safety on the road.

While significant rust on the rims could be an issue, it does not impact tire performance as directly as the factors listed in the correct choice. Low fuel levels and alignment issues, while important in their own right, do not pertain specifically to tire condition during the tire inspection phase of a pre-trip assessment. Thus, focusing on tread depth, inflation, and damage is the most comprehensive and relevant approach to tire safety during inspections.