What condition of a tire mandates a failure judgment?

A tire condition that indicates separation in the sidewall is a serious safety concern and mandates a failure judgment during Maryland State inspections. Sidewall separation can significantly compromise the structural integrity of the tire, increasing the risk of blowouts and loss of vehicle control. This type of defect indicates that the tire may not be able to support the vehicle's weight or withstand normal driving conditions, posing a danger to the driver, passengers, and others on the road.

In contrast, conditions such as cuts and snags that do not expose cords may be less severe and classed as minor issues, which might not require a failure judgment unless they significantly affect performance. Similarly, a sidewall free from cracks or treadwear indicators that are not touching the road may represent normal wear or acceptable conditions, preventing a failure assessment. The critical nature of sidewall separation is what distinctly warrants immediate action and a failure rating during an inspection.