Life — September 9, 1920 — page 8: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This is primarily a **full-page advertisement** for Weed Tire Chains, not satirical content. The ad argues that automobile tire chains are essential safety equipment to prevent skidding accidents on icy or wet roads. The image shows a car viewed from underneath, displaying the tire chains in action. The advertisement's argument is **somewhat accusatory toward negligent drivers**: it frames the choice *not* to use tire chains as unfair to pedestrians and other motorists who could be harmed by skidding. The text suggests courts should not excuse skidding as "unavoidable" when chains are affordable and readily available. The tone is moralistic rather than humorous—appealing to driver responsibility and public safety rather than satirizing anything. This reflects early automotive-era concerns about accident prevention and product promotion through guilt and civic duty.