Important Car Maintenance Tasks to Perform This Year
While accidents are regularly caused by driver negligence in failing to abide by traffic laws, speeding, or driving recklessly, a surprising number of collisions are not the result of the negligent operation of a vehicle, but can be attributed to the negligent maintenance of the vehicle itself. Collisions caused by improper vehicle maintenance can have life-altering consequences for the parties involved, so if you were recently injured in a collision caused by defective brakes, a seized engine, or sluggish steering that has been linked to improper maintenance, it is important to speak with an experienced car accident lawyer who can help you seek compensation for your losses.
Changing Your Oil
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), improper vehicle maintenance leads to as many as 45,000 car accidents every year. Fortunately, adding certain car maintenance tasks to your routine can make all the difference when it comes to preventing these types of accidents. Of these tasks, changing your oil is one of the most important, as failing to do so can cause the vehicle’s engine’s components to warp and wear out much more quickly. Although how often a vehicle needs its oil changed depends on the make and model of the vehicle in question, most experts agree that the average car needs its oil changed at least every 7,500 miles.
Checking Tire Pressure
Having low treads or the wrong tire pressure will cause a vehicle’s entire performance to suffer. Furthermore, the risk of a catastrophic blowout increases substantially, which can be particularly dangerous at freeway speeds. To avoid blowouts, vehicle owners are encouraged to check their tire pressure regularly, inspecting their tire treads for uneven wear, and rotating their tires every 10,000 miles.
Replacing Your Brake Pads
Brake pads play a key role in increasing a car’s stopping power and so should be inspected and if necessary, replaced regularly. Drivers should also keep an eye out for certain signs of disrepair, including:
- Brake sensors and warning lights;
- Unusual grinding sounds;
- The vehicle pulling to one side;
- Diminished responsiveness;
- Unusual vibrations; and
- Overly thin pads.
Taking vehicles in for regular inspections is one of the best ways to prevent accidents caused by faulty brake pads, as these parts are relatively simple and cheap to replace.
Replacing Lights and Windshield Wipers
A vehicle’s windshield wipers and lights play a major role when it comes to ensuring a driver’s ability to see and be seen by others. Signs that a driver may need a replacement of his or her vehicle’s lights including a rapid blinking signal and dimming lights. Motorists should also keep an eye out for signs that it’s time for new windshield wipers, such as excessive streaking or unusual noises.
Schedule an Initial Consultation Today
If you have been injured in an accident that was caused, at least in part, by improper vehicle maintenance, you can talk to the Fort Lauderdale auto accident attorneys at Boone & Davis to get help with your case. Contact us online or by phone at 954-566-9919 to set up a free case review.
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