Q.	Where does rubber on the road come from?
	A.	The rubber pieces you see on the road come from both new and retreaded tires. It is important to note that most of the rubber on the road comes from truck tires and is caused mainly by underinflation, overloading, and tire abuse. See Rubber on the Road: Issues & Answers.
	Q.	Are retreaded tires really as safe as new tires?
	A.	Yes. Adjustment percentages of retreaded tires are about the same as with new tires. Statistics compiled by the U.S. Department of Transportation show that nearly all tires involved in any tire related accidents are underinflated or bald. Properly maintained tires, whether new or retreaded, do not cause accidents.
	Q.	Do any standards (federal or industry) control the quality and safety of retreaded tires?
	A.	Yes. Passenger, light pick-up, and 4x4 tires are retreaded according to standards established by the U.S. Department of Transportation and carry a code number (**) on the sidewall indicating where and when the tire was retreaded. Due in part to the standards established by the truck retread tire industry, the U.S. Department of Transportation has not developed regulations for manufacturing retreaded truck tires. The overall quality of retreaded truck tires has increased dramatically in recent years with the introduction of high technology, including the use of computers in manufacturing and non-destructive tire testing. As with passenger car tires, most problems with truck tires can be traced back to poor maintenance (primarily underinflation) and abuse (overloading). See: The Importance of Proper Tire Inflation  (**)  Link directly to Search page, for Name and Location of Retread Plant when 3 letter  DOT CODE is  known.                      http://www.retread.org/packet/index.cfm/ID/180.htm
	Q.	Can I buy retreaded RADIAL and HIGH PERFORMANCE tires?
	A.	Yes. Steel belted and non-steel belted radials and high performance tires are retreaded. Since high performance tires are usually manufactured with cap plies, the retreadability of the original tire casing is greatly improved. See Retread Tire Buyers Guide.
	Q.	Can retreaded tires be driven at highway and interstate speeds?
	A.	Yes. Retreaded tires can be driven at the same legal speeds as comparable new tires with no loss in safety or comfort.
	Q.	How long will they last?
	A.	With proper maintenance and care, retreaded tires will provide the same amount of service as comparable new tires. Retreads tread life varies from the same as a comparable new tire to 75% of a new tire. The variables here, relative to a comparable new tire are, 1. Retreads often start with less tread depth, 2. Due to casing conditions, the retread footprint may be smaller/narrower then the new tire, 3. Trailer tires are removed from service for reasons other then wear out over 80% of the time, especially with in-line haul service.    See: The Importance of Proper Tire Inflation".
	Q.	Are there any driving conditions where retreaded tires should not be driven?
	A.	No. Retreaded tires can be driven wherever comparable new tires can be driven. The only restriction is on the steer axle of busses hauling passengers.