What should you check for in the tire sidewall during an inspection?

During a pre-trip inspection, checking for visible cracks in the tire sidewall is crucial and is an indicator of potential tire failure. The presence of cracks can expose the tire to further environmental damage, lead to air loss, and increase the risk of blowouts while driving. Thus, it's vital to ensure the tires are not compromised in this way.

Evaluating the tire sidewall for other conditions is also important, but the emphasis on checking for cracks specifically addresses safety implications directly related to tire integrity. Tread depth and wear patterns are also considered during inspections, but the sidewall's condition is paramount in determining the overall reliability of the tire.