Failure to Maintain Can Cause Wrecks

You know that drunk driving can lead to car accidents. You know the same about drugged, reckless, and distracted driving. But did you know that a failure to perform routine or necessary maintenance to your vehicle can also cause wrecks? There are several mechanical problems that, although relatively minor, can lead to major collisions. Here are five of those issues:

Under Inflated Tires
It was discovered more than 30 years ago that under-inflated tires can cause serious accidents. In fact, even way back then, 1.4% of accidents were attributed to under-inflated tires. When tires do not contain enough air, they can become overheated and, ultimately, fail. This discovery led, in part, to the tire pressure monitoring systems on vehicles made from 2008 on.

Worn Tires
When your tires do not have adequate tread, they cannot maintain traction on wet roads. When your drive through a puddle, your tires stop making contact with the road, send you into a hydroplane and straight into a dangerous situation. If your tires are worn down to 16 mm or less, it is time to have them replaced.

Bad Brakes
If your brakes feel abnormal to you, have them checked. Signs of bad brakes include scraping noises, your vehicle pulling to one side or the other, a low brake pedal, a spongy feeling in the brake pedal, or a pedal that sinks to the floor slowly. If you notice any of these things, you need to have your brakes inspected immediately.

Worn Steering Linkage
If your steering system fails, you literally have no control over your vehicle. When you feel as though your car is not responding to your commands, it is time to have your steering system inspected. Tie rods may be worn or failing, tie rod sockets could be worn, or ball studs may be loose. No matter what the issue, have it repaired as soon as possible.

Blocked Windows
When your defroster doesn’t work or your windshield wipers don’t clear your glass, you are putting yourself and everyone on the road in danger. If you cannot see clearly out of your windows, do not drive. There are a variety of reasons why your car’s HVAC system is not working properly, and all of those reasons are not major. Sometimes a simple fix is all that is in order.

You may think that you can skip the routine maintenance for your vehicle, but you are wrong. Failing to take proper care of your vehicle is putting you and others at risk of injury or, worse, death. Take care of your car as recommended by the maker to ensure it is as safe to drive as possible.

If you have been injured in an automobile accident, contact our team of lawyers immediately. We are here to help you and your family get started on the road to recovery. Call us today for a free consultation.