Improper car maintenance is an often-overlooked issue that contributes to many collisions. Neglecting or delaying maintenance leads to vehicles that do not operate at their full potential. The result of this failure can often be serious car accidents.
What Are the Most Common Maintenance-Related Issues That Lead to Car Accidents?
Tires are the only part of the vehicle that comes into contact with roadway surfaces. While this may seem like an obvious point, it also underscores how critical it is for drivers to care for their tires.
Under- or over-inflated tires, tire leaks, and tread damage are just a few of the common tire-related issues vehicle owners can face. Since September 2007, models have been mandated to include tire pressure monitoring systems that alert the driver to low tire pressure. This allows them to address the issue in a timely manner. The better a driver maintains their tires, the less likely an accident is.
If a tire-related issue contributed to a crash, a car accident attorney can help determine how responsibility may be assessed under state law.
Lighting issues arise when turn signals, brake lights, daytime running lights, or headlights begin to degrade or even burn out completely. A driver’s ability to communicate with the cars around them is dependent in large part on their lights being fully functional. When there is a problem with the lighting or electrical system, it can create a circumstance where an accident becomes more probable.
The battery is a critical component, supplying the power that the car needs to start. A weak or aging battery, as well as corrosion on the battery, can cause operational issues. Additionally, any problems with the alternator can lead to battery complications since they function together.
What Steps Can Be Taken To Keep Your Vehicle Safe for Road Travel?
Before heading out for the day, inspect the exterior of your vehicle, especially the lights and tires. These are easy-to-check areas that can significantly impact performance. There is no doubt when a light is out or a tire is flat. It also takes relatively little effort to walk around the outside of your car to check for any obvious issues.
Most vehicles will inform the driver of any issues that have developed, thanks to onboard diagnostics systems. The appropriate dashboard warning light will illuminate, indicating a problem that should be investigated sooner rather than later. Other signs, such as strong, unfamiliar smells and odd noises, can be telltale signs that something is wrong with the vehicle; these are usually easy to discern. If a driver senses something “off” about their car, it is important to address it promptly before it becomes a major issue.
