Everyone loves a road trip. When setting out, it’s important to check your car’s safety features and standard equipment before you go. One essential part of this check is your tires. Tire failure is one of the major causes of accidents that are unrelated to driver error. Tires require regular maintenance in order to perform properly. All car owners should check tire pressure, size, general condition and alignment at regular intervals, every 3000-5000 miles.
The most common reason for tire failure is under inflation. Tires that are not inflated properly can cause a vehicle to destabilize, skid and fail to brake. The inflation requirements are listed in the owner’s manual of the car and are also posted on an information sticker on the driver’s side door. Drivers should take care to inflate tires according to manufacturer’s instructions and keep tire pressure at that level at all times.
In addition to inflation, correct installation of tires is a critical element in the car’s performance in an accident. If a tire is not installed properly, is not positioned or lubricated as directed, the tire can blow out, causing the driver to lose control of the car.
Tires can also fail due to manufacturing defects. Whatever the issue, when a tire blows it can be a terrifying event. If you have a blowout on a highway, instructors suggest keeping your foot on the gas in order to avoid braking. As soon as possible, let off the gas and allow the car to slow and move over onto the shoulder.
In the moment it is hard for some people to keep a cool head and remember not to brake. Braking at high speeds, especially during a blowout can cause the car to careen into oncoming traffic.
Maintaining tires is an essential part of practicing car safety. If you do have an accident, stay as calm as possible. Call for help, call the police, and get out of the way as quickly as possible.
In the aftermath of an accident it can be hard to know how to get the help you need. That’s when it’s time to call an attorney who can take your case seriously. A member of the litigation team at Lytal, Reiter, Smith, Ivy & Fronrath will take you through the steps needed to get you compensation for your injuries. Call our West Palm Beach office at 561-655-1990 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation.
