US analysts: Tariffs on Chinese tires would increase traffic accidents

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In the meantime, Analysts in the United States say the decision will force consumers to pay higher prices and limit their choice.

Higher prices could also make consumers reluctant to replace old tires, which would increase traffic accidents.

The tire dispute was brought to a head by the United Steelworkers union earlier this year.

The US International Trade Commission ruled in the union's favor. Earlier, US President Barack Obama vowed to support free trade. But he has now decided to impose tariffs starting from September 26th. Analysts say the reason for his decision is political pressure.

Philip Levy, Resident Scholar, American Enterprise Institute, said, "President Obama is been different interest groups the decision is so wrong but under huge political pressure."

Normally petitions on unfair trade are brought by manufacturers. But this one was filed by a labor union. US tire-makers themselves oppose Obama's decision.

Their objection puts the US president in the awkward position of trying to protect American manufactures that clearly don't want the protection.

Analysts say the decision means the US has given up on the low-end market. Even if the so-called safeguard duty is imposed, there is no way for US tire manufactures to reopen their production lines. Instead, distributors will search for supplies from other countries.