When inspecting the area between tires, what should be checked?

When inspecting the area between tires, particularly dual tires on a vehicle, it is crucial to ensure that the rims are butted against each other with no tire contact. This configuration allows for proper clearance between the tires, which prevents potential tire damage and ensures that heat can dissipate effectively. If the tires were to touch each other, it could lead to uneven wear or failure of the tires due to friction generated from movement.

Ensuring the space between the tires is clear of debris and that they are not making contact is essential for safety and longevity. It is also important to confirm that there is adequate space for expansion due to heat generated during driving.

In contrast, checking for worn tread or debris as mentioned in the other options is certainly important, but these do not specifically address the critical inspection of the relationship between the rims and tires, which is a key focus of this particular question. Proper alignment and clearance between the tires are vital to prevent tire failures, making the correct assessment of the rims' positioning very relevant to safety protocols during a pre-trip inspection.