Vehicles are a daily staple in most people’s lives, but they also represent the possibility of a car or truck wreck. Even if you’re able to physically and financially recover from such an accident, it’s better to avoid it altogether—or at the very least, put yourself in a better position to win damages with a personal injury claim by virtue of a clean maintenance record. Here’s a closer look at how to maintain your vehicle to optimize your chances of staying safe. 

How Maintenance Can Help Prevent Car & Truck Wrecks 

1. Use Good Tires 

Look over your tires once a month to see if they have adequate pressure and enough tread to properly grip the road. If the wear looks uneven, ask a mechanic to rotate them. You may need a professional to repair or replace your tires entirely if there are cracks or worn tread that could compromise your ability to control the vehicle. 

2. Have Brakes Examined 

The brakes are essential for slowing and stopping safely. A mechanic should update your brakes every six months, but take your vehicle to the shop sooner if you notice any of the following while using them: 

• Low pedal resistance 

• Burning smell 

• Vibrating steering wheel 

• Squealing or grinding 

• Vehicle jerks to one side 

You’ll also know that the brakes need immediate service if the corresponding light comes on in the dashboard or the fluid leaks beneath the rear of the engine. 

3. Check Fluids 

Without the right amount of necessary fluids, your vehicle may get worn out quickly or even break down unexpectedly, putting you at risk of a car or semi-truck in the middle of the road. Once a month, see whether the oil, transmission, brake, coolant, and wiper fluids are low enough to need replenishment or dirty enough to be replaced entirely. 

4. Schedule Tuneups 

The engine is composed of several supplemental parts, including a battery, hose, and timing belt, and all of them must be working for your vehicle to run without breaking down while you’re driving. Age, grime, and debris can cause problems with these parts. Older cars with non-electronic tuneups should schedule an engine tuneup every 12,000 miles, while newer models can go 25,000 miles or more.

5. Keep Lights Working 

Many car and truck wrecks happen because the lights weren’t maintained. The headlights signal your presence and help you see in the dark and inclement weather, while your taillights indicate your turns and stops to other drivers, who can then react appropriately. Make sure all of them are fully functional and replace them immediately when they go out. 

Routine maintenance is sometimes not enough to prevent a car or truck wreck. If you’ve been involved in an accident, contact the Law Offices of Adrian L. Falgione, LLC in Lexington, SC. As a seasoned and dedicated personal injury attorney and auto accident lawyer practicing since 1989, he’ll ensure you’re justly compensated for the accident. With his expert understanding of court trials, Attorney Faglione can also present a capable defense for you if another driver claims you’re at fault. To schedule a consultation, call his office today at (803) 957-6543 or send a message online.