Jackson's Story

On February 10, 2023, 19-year-old Jackson Bebiak was tragically killed in a car crash caused by excessively worn tires. Despite wearing his seatbelt, the vehicle hydroplaned in inclement weather, resulting in a fatal collision with an 18-wheeler.

In response, the Bebiak family founded the Road Ready Foundation, which gained momentum throughout Georgia and the southeast. Recognizing the potential for broader impact, Jackson's father, Alex Bebiak, joined forces with Jamie Ward, President of the Ohio Tire & Automotive Association, CEO of Tire Discounters & co-found the Safe Tread Alliance (STA), expanding the mission nationally,

Watch Jackson's Story Here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u5k3cu48QBg&t=9s&pp=ygUVcm9hZCByZWFkeSBmb3VuZGF0aW9u

STA's Mission

Our mission is clear:

To educate, advocate, and legislate so no family ever suffers a tragedy caused by unsafe tires again. Together, we’re creating a new national standard where safety is never compromised, where drivers stay out of the Danger Zone, and where every mile truly matters, every life truly counts.

The current U.S. minimum of 2/32 inch is dangerously outdated. Research shows that most tires lose critical wet traction well before this point, placing drivers below 4/32 inch in what we call the Danger Zone: the point where stopping distances surge, hydroplaning risk increases, and families are no longer protected. Yet some states still allow 1/32 inch, and six states have no minimum at all. These gaps expose millions of drivers, especially teens and vulnerable families, to entirely preventable danger.

We’re leading a phased, practical roadmap for real change:

Phase One: A Lifesaving, Immediate Step

Advocating for a 4/32-inch minimum tread depth for all passenger and light-truck tires that do not meet proven wet-braking performance standards.
This simple update will keep families out of the Danger Zone, reduce crashes, save lives, and create national awareness around tire safety.

Phase Two: Modernizing Safety with Proven Global Standards

Inspired by the European Union’s Regulation R117-04, which requires worn tires to demonstrate safe wet braking, we are working to bring the same forward-thinking approach to North America.
Holding tires accountable even when worn ensures safer roads, reduces waste, strengthens consumer trust, and delivers long-term economic benefits for drivers.

Safe Tread Alliance

Safe Tread Alliance

Jackson's Story

STA's Mission

How does tire tread affect your braking distance?

Our Supporters

Discover our tire journey through stunning visuals

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Safe Tread Alliance

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Safe Tread Alliance

Safe Tread Alliance

Jackson's Story

STA's Mission

How does tire tread affect your braking distance?

Our Supporters

Discover our tire journey through stunning visuals

Contact Us

Safe Tread Alliance

Hours

Contact us

Subscribe

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