All tires are costing more, including those for trucks, farm tractors, and construction equipment.  Undoubtedly, those costs will be passed along to consumers.

What can consumers and businesses do to help soften the blow of higher tire prices?  TIA Senior Vice President of Training Kevin Rohlwing gave four tips that can help:

--Check air pressure.  "Incorrect air pressure is the No. 1 cause of both poor gas mileage and premature tire wear for passenger cars, trucks, and all other equipment requiring pneumatic tires," Rohlwing said.

--Rotate tires as recommended.  "Both consumers and businesses often overlook this simple way to increase the life of their tires," Rohlwing said, advising that for passenger cars, tires should be rotated every 5,000-7,000 miles. 

 
--If a tire is punctured, be sure it is properly repaired.  "What many people and businesses do not realize is that on-the-wheel or plug repairs are dangerous and could end up costing far more than the cost of a proper tire repair," Rohlwing said. He advised consumers and businesses to look for service providers that remove the tire from the wheel and repair it from the inside, with a patch and rubber insert.

--Avoid hard stops and high-speed turns.  "People often forget that aggressive driving leads to accelerated tire wear, which will force them to buy new tires before they really need them," he said.  "And, with the cost of a new passenger tire averaging in the $75-$150 range, this will add up very quickly over the life of the vehicle."

"TIA and our tire service members worldwide understand that the current economic conditions are affecting virtually everyone, from farmers to truckers to consumers," said Roy Littlefield, executive vice president of TIA. 

 
"With just the smallest amount of attention and care, both consumers and businesses can make sure that their tires do not affect their pocketbook or bottom line," Littlefield said.