Mechanics said heat is a tire's worst enemy. According to Michelin, 550 people die each year from tire blowouts. Tire professionals said heat can cause an under inflated tire to expand and the combination of high speeds and hot pavement can lead to a blowout.

"Most people don't realize it but under inflation on tire's pressure will cause that," said Raymond Rauls who has been driving trucks for 35 years.

Rauls said he has seen many blowouts during his career.

"A tire can come up and hit another vehicle, cause an accident or something of that nature," said Rauls.

Mechanics said underinflated or bald tires are most commonly the culprit of tire blowouts.

"Anytime the temperature gets above 88 degrees where I'm at, I check my tires every 150 miles," said Rauls.

Other drivers said they take precautions when traveling long distances.

"Just check the tire pressure before you go on a trip," said Charlie Brinkley, who was traveling to Dallas.

"We just keep our tires maintained," said Candy Roberts who was traveling from Midland.  

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported nine percent of cars on roadways are driven with at least one bald tire. An average tire that is properly maintained and aligned can drive 60,000 to 80,000 miles.