Interpretation ID: 1983-1.36

TYPE: INTERPRETATION-NHTSA

DATE: 04/00/83 EST

FROM: GREAT WEST CASUALTY CO.

TITLE: GW SAFETY TALK

ATTACHMT: DECEMBER 30, 1988 LETTER FROM JONES TO SPRUNK, OCTOBER 8, 1987 LETTER FROM SPRUNK TO JONES, BROCHURES ON TIRE SIPING, 1978 NSC WINTER TEST REPORT, AUGUST 19, 1986 LETTER FROM KEIL TO SPRUNK, ARTICLE FROM AUGUST 1986 ISSUE OF "SCHOOL BUSINESS AFFAIRS," ARTICLE ENTITLED "SLASHING TIRES FOR SAFETY AND SAVINGS" FROM DECEMBER 1984 "NATIONAL SCHOOL BUS REPORT," MARCH 20, 1985 LETTER FROM GIFFORD TO SPRUNK, AND OCTOBER 15, 1982 LETTER FROM PALMER TO MARCY MANUFACTURING

TEXT: LOSS PREVENTION TOOL: In our mailing to fleets, we will include a brochure or pamphlet regarding Siping of Tires. We do not have any statistics or facts concerning the Siping of Tires. However, we insure several carriers who siping every tire in the fleet and they and their drivers are convinced it is a major safety factor that cannot be ignored on rain, snow, or ice slick highways. These carriers talk in terms of better control, better maneuverability, cooler running tires, better mileage, etc.

SIPING OF TIRES. Some time ago, we wrote a short article about siping of tires which improved traction on wet and icy roads, ran cooler, etc. We were surprised at the calls from carriers who didn't know what siping was. I personally talked to 2 carriers and their drivers report substantial traction improvement on wet and slick roads. One carrier was having some difficulty with unusual wear patterns on the tire. They siped them and it corrected the problem. When the carrier and the driver gives validity to the process, then it is worthy of consideration.

SAF-TEE SIPING CALL YOUR FELLOW TRUCKER AND *Improves Traction on Wet and CHECK FOR YOURSELF Icy Roads (22% National Safety Council) *Increases Tire Life 15% to 20% 1. Palmer Trucking - Jim Palmer, (406) 721-5151 2. Unthum Trucking - Keith Reilly, (515) 448-4707 *Decreases Uneven Wear Patterns 3. Holland Trucking - Dennis Holland, (701) 280-2634 50% - 70% (Tread Flexes More) 4. Apple Lines - Dale Coates, (605) 256-6661