Summer in Berkshire County means road trips, vacations, weekend adventures, and plenty of miles behind the wheel.

But before you head to the beach, the mountains, or your next family gathering, it's worth taking a closer look at one of the most important safety features on your vehicle: your tires.

According to the team at T&M Auto in North Adams, many drivers don't realize how quickly tire problems can develop—and how expensive they can become if ignored.

"Your tires affect everything from safety and handling to fuel economy," said Mike Milazzo at T&M Auto. "A simple inspection can often catch small issues before they turn into bigger problems."

Here are five tire-related issues every driver should check this summer.

1. Uneven Tire Wear

Take a close look at your tire tread.

If one side of the tire appears more worn than the other, it could be a sign of an alignment or suspension issue.

Uneven tire wear can:

• Shorten the life of your tires

• Affect vehicle handling

• Reduce fuel efficiency

• Lead to premature tire replacement

Many drivers don't notice the problem until it's too late.

2. Low Tread Depth

Tire tread is designed to help your vehicle maintain traction, especially during heavy summer rainstorms.

As tread wears down, your ability to stop and control your vehicle decreases.