Recent studies have demonstrated that when tires on church vans are six or more years old, the incidence of tire failure leading to catastrophic and fatal accidents rises significantly.  Many of the churches and ministries CLA assists have substantial outreach programs and other activities that involve the regular use of church vans.  This is an important warning for them.

Major auto and tire manufactures have been studying how to fix a substantial and growing problem of church van accidents.  In some situations, tread separation has been an issue, but recent studies reviewed by the federal government and van manufactures have concluded that when tires are six years old or older, they have a much greater failure rate on the highway.

These studies have prompted manufacturers of vans used by ministries to issue revised warnings and recommendations about replacing van tires no later than every six years even if the tread appears to be good.  Manufacturers have determined that natural elements break down the tire's ability to perform as designed over the course of time.

Practical Tips

Every church and ministry can immediately take some practical steps to greatly reduce the risk of tire failure and protect the children and staff who ride in church vehicles.

1.    Assign someone in the church or ministry to perform a safety check on all church vehicles at least once a month.

2.    All drivers should be required to do both pre-trip and post trip inspections of the vehicle.  CLA has forms available to use for such inspections.  Just call or e-mail CLA to request a copy of the form.  Particular attention should be given to the tires.  Items such as tire tread, correct tire pressure, tire condition, and side wall condition including any slashes, nails, screws or gouges should be given careful review.  If any repairs need to be made, a professional, reputable, and insured business should do the service.

3.    Ministries should keep a log of when tires are replaced.  Tires should not be permitted to be in service longer than 6 years on any vehicle.  Remember, this rule also applies to the "spare tire" since the studies show that even though a tire is unused, the elements degrade it in the same fashion as the other tires.

4.    Become familiar with what tire "dry-rot" looks like.  Dry-rot conditions occur when tires are exposed to sun and weather over extended periods of time.  Church vans and buses often sit outside unused for long periods of time.  Such inactivity invites dry-rot. Even if the tread "looks good," cracks will begin to appear on the sidewalls or between the treads of a tire.  That condition can be a sign of dry-rot, in which case the tires should be replaced before allowing the vehicle to travel.  Tire failures occur frequently because of this condition.

5.    Be sure the correct tire size and weight load capacity is used when replacing tires.  Resist the temptation to "get the best deal."  When tires are involved, CLA recommends using the best tire available to protect the safety of those God has entrusted to the ministry’s care.