AKRON, Ohio, Nov. 25, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- For the millions who plan to drive "over the river and through the woods," or simply to multiple shopping center parking lots during the upcoming Thanksgiving weekend, The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company (NASDAQ: GT) has advice: Don't forget about the condition of your tires and whether your vehicle is ready for the changing weather conditions during this season.

In the midst of dropping temperatures across North America, Goodyear suggests all drivers take a moment and inspect their tires. They shouldn't wait much longer to improve their traction on potentially hazardous roads and highways, or to consider a complete vehicle checkup as the calendar moves deep into fall and soon into winter.

"Admittedly, motorists may not be in the mood to think about snow, ice and slush," said Jay Robinson, Goodyear general manager, consumer tires. "However, they can quickly be reminded that the comfort level of their winter driving may be dependent upon the gripping ability of their tires.

"Especially over the next week, as millions are traveling to visit family and friends, or even to chase down the best Black Friday shopping deals, we want to be sure they remember the important role of tires in helping them reach their destinations safely."

One of the best ways to avoid slipping and sliding in a vehicle during this time of year is to improve the contact points between the vehicle and the road surface. For many motorists, that means selecting new tires with improved tread grip. In severe winter areas, many motorists opt for a seasonal changeover that employs true winter tires to combat the expected ice and snow.

In addition, maintaining proper air pressure is the single most important thing drivers can do for their tires. Goodyear suggests checking tire inflation at least once per month or before a long driving trip with a reliable gauge, or visit a participating Goodyear retailer to have the tires inspected. To find the proper air pressure for a tire, look in the vehicle owner's manual, in the glove box or on the driver's side door jamb. Hint: The inflation pressure stamped on the sidewall of a tire is the "maximum" pressure, not the "recommended" pressure.

According to AAA Travel, it is projected that 46.3 million Americans will journey 50 miles or more from home during the upcoming Thanksgiving weekend, the highest volume for the holiday since 2007 and a 4.2 percent increase over 2013.

Robinson reminds motorists that the Farmer's Almanac is predicting a colder-than-normal winter for much of North America, with heavy snow and rain over the eastern third of the U.S., and below-normal temperatures for about three-quarters of Canada.

"No matter the kind of vehicle, or whether the vehicle includes an all-wheel drive system, the level of traction and grip in inclement weather is dependent upon the condition of the tires," said Robinson.

Goodyear offers a full line of all-season and winter tires for cars, vans, SUVs and trucks. Goodyear is one of the world's largest tire companies. It employs approximately 69,000 people and manufactures its products in 50 facilities in 22 countries around the world. Its two Innovation Centers in Akron, Ohio and Colmar-Berg, Luxembourg strive to develop state-of-the-art products and services that set the technology and performance standard for the industry. For more information about Goodyear and its products, go to www.goodyear.com.

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SOURCE The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company