According to a report by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), more than 730 people died in fatal car accidents in 2017 due to issues related to tires. At Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas we want to see these preventable accidents reduced to zero. Keep reading to find out four steps you can take to ensure your tires are as safe as possible before you get on the road. If you are involved in a car accident, contact us at 909-982-0707 for a free legal consultation.
- Check Your Tire Pressure
- Check the Tread on Your Tires
- Have Your Tires Balanced and Aligned
- Haver Your Tires Rotated
If you are only going to follow one bit of advice on this list, make it this one: Check your tire pressure. You can buy a tire pressure gauge at most gas stations for just a few dollars. Test all four of your tires at least once a month. Do this when they are cold (i.e. have not been driven on for several hours) to get an accurate read.
Tires that are not properly inflated can lead to uneven tread wear, blowouts, and flat tires. If that’s not convincing enough, consider this: Tire pressure affects your gas mileage. Having your tires properly inflated can significantly improve gas mileage.
It is also important to ensure that your tires have enough tread. This is especially important if you are driving on icy or wet roads. If you have enough tread, then your vehicle will better be able to keep traction on roads. If your tire tread has worn down below 2/32 of an inch, then your tires are no longer safe and should be replaced.
Your tires should be balanced and aligned on a regular basis. How often you need this done will depend on the type of vehicle you own, how often you drive, and what surfaces you most commonly drive on. Your local mechanic can help you decide when you need to have your tires balanced and aligned. If you are driving and notice that your car is shaking or pulling to one side or another, then you should have your tires balanced and aligned right away.
If you have your tires rotated regularly, you will not only be increasing the safety of your vehicle but you can prevent irregular wear and tear. This saves you money in the long run because you may not need to have your tires replaced as soon – and of course it helps improve fuel efficiency too.
If you have been involved in a car accident that has resulted from an issue with tires, then you may have a personal injury claim to make. Learn more by calling Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas at 909-982-0707 and requesting a free legal consultation.
