Survey Reveals Ideal Destinations for Autumn Adventures

Published on October 03, 2017 09:32 AM in Safe Driving, Driving Destinations

Crimson leaves and golden sunlight makes autumn a great time for a driving getaway. Hankook Tires recently polled Americans and found the Great Smoky Mountains to be the best destination for a fall road trip.

"Fall road trips are all about adventure, fun and safety, and our latest Hankook Tire Gauge Index tells us Americans are looking to take advantage of the scenic autumn weather," said Wes Boling, public relations manager of Hankook Tire America Corp.

The Hankook Tire Gauge Index is a survey of Americans' attitudes and opinions about all things related to driving. It takes place every quarter. The latest survey polled 956 randomly selected Americans in early August.

In addition to the Great Smoky Mountains, Aspen, Colorado, the Pacific Northwest's Columbia River Gorge and New York's Catskill Mountains also stood out as popular destinations, according to the survey.

Of course, fall leaves look scenic and make for stellar photographs, but they also create hazardous conditions when they fall on the road.

"No matter where drivers chase fall foliage this season, it is important to consider the safety hazards unique to the season," Boling said. "Red and yellow leaves may offer postcard-perfect pictures, but they can also be a hazard on the road, leading to decreased traction and more slippery driving conditions. The change of season serves as a good reminder for drivers to inspect their tires' air pressure, tread and overall condition to help promote safe driving."

In addition to offering insight about travel desires, the Hankook Tire Gauge Index also sheds light on Americans' attitudes toward tire safety.

The vast majority (83 percent) acknowledge healthy tire tread improves traction and grip in wet conditions. Respondents also recognized healthy tire tread this season increases mileage (73 percent), improves grip in dry conditions (70 percent) and leads to longer tire life (62 percent).

More than half those surveyed check the health of their tires with a visual inspection. Hankook tires simplifies the visual inspection with a tread wear indicator on the sidewall. When the tire groove wears below the indicator mark, the tire needs to be replaced.

The penny test is another method to check tread depth. Simply place a penny upside down into the tread groove. If Lincoln's head is still visible, it's time to replace the tire.