Figures from the National Traffic Safety Administration reveal that inadequately inflated tires account for more than half a million auto accidents every year, mishaps that precipitate over 25,000 personal injuries and 700 deaths.

Improper inflation also wears away tire rubber at an accelerated rate, costing consumers billions.

But, let’s face it, it’s a hassle to check tire pressure. To do so you must first find a pressure gauge and figure out how to use it. Then you’ll get fingers dirty unscrewing those rubber valve caps before connecting them to the gauge.

So if you’re looking for an easier way, invest in a set of special valve caps, such as the Tire Minders from Brookstone. These caps use color-coded signals to indicate at a glance whether your tires have lost any air — no more using a gauge.

A set of four Tire Minders tallies to $19.95 as item #292904 from Brookstone. Call 866-576-7337 or visit www.brookstone.com.