In the wake of two crashes on Northeast Florida highways, Channel 4 report Laura Mazzeo looks into what drivers should know about tire safety and keeping cars in safe working order.

Two Miami men died along Interstate 10 in Baker County Monday when their sport utility vehicle went off the road. State troopers said the tread on a rear tire separated, causing the fatal crash.

Also on Monday, a satellite truck belonging to a South Carolina TV station overturned on Interstate 95 in St. Johns County. The truck was on its way back from the Daytona 500, when state troopers said one of its tires peeled away, causing the driver to lose control.

"If something happens to that tire that you lose traction or the tire malfunctions in someway, you're in trouble," said Ron Paige, of the Northeast Florida Safety Council.

Staying safe on the road begins before getting in the car, according experts. They said by simply walking around the vehicle and taking a look at each tire, driver can begin their travels safely.

"Look for breaks in the tire. Look for something -- if you're starting to get chunks of the tire off," Paige said.

He said there's an easy way, involving a penny, to make sure tires are not too worn.

"Take penny, turn it up-side-down and put his head down into the tire itself. If you can see the top of his, meaning past the hairline, that mean they're too old and you need to start thinking about replacing your tires," Paige said.

He also said drivers should make sure tires are properly inflated by checking the vehicle's door jam for the guidelines and then using a tire pressure gauge at least once a week.

Paige said if a driver loses a tire on the road, he or she should not panic, slam on the brakes or over correct.

"Don't hit the breaks, that's the big thing. Steer yourself and try to bring it down very lightly," Paige said.

Even if a wreck cannot be prevented, Paige said drivers would be better off not talking on a cell phone and by wearing a seat belt.