Car accidents can occur for many reasons, but one of the most preventable causes is poor vehicle maintenance. Unfortunately, many drivers fail to prioritize routine maintenance, which can lead to dangerous situations on the road.
Understanding the most overlooked car maintenance issues and how they can lead to accidents is crucial, especially for those navigating the busy streets of Long Island, New York.
If you’ve been in an accident due to someone else’s neglected vehicle maintenance, consulting a car accident lawyer in Long Island can help protect your rights and secure compensation for your injuries.
Let’s dive into the most common yet often ignored maintenance issues that can cause serious accidents.
Worn-Out Tires: A Leading Cause of Accidents
Tires are essential for safe driving, yet many drivers neglect routine checks. Worn-out tires can drastically decrease your vehicle’s grip on the road, especially in wet or slippery conditions, which can lead to serious accidents.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), around 11,000 accidents each year in the United States are tire-related. In New York, where weather can change in an instant, keeping your tires in top condition is crucial for your safety.
How to Prevent Tire-Related Accidents:
- Regularly check tire tread depth using the penny test. If Lincoln’s head is fully visible, it’s time to replace the tire.
- Ensure tires are properly inflated according to your vehicle’s manual.
- Rotate your tires every 5,000 to 8,000 miles to promote even wear.
Neglecting tire maintenance can leave you at risk for serious accidents. If you find yourself in an accident due to poorly maintained tires, a Long Island car wreck attorney is here to help you navigate the legal process and seek the compensation you deserve.
Faulty Brakes: A Catastrophe Waiting to Happen
Brakes are one of the most vital safety systems in any vehicle. When brakes are faulty or worn out, stopping distances increase, leading to collisions, especially in sudden stop scenarios. According to the Department of Transportation, brake system failures contribute to about 22% of vehicle accidents related to mechanical issues .
Drivers may ignore brake warning signs such as squeaking, grinding noises, or a spongy brake pedal, but these are often signs that brake pads or other components need immediate attention.
Preventing Brake Failure:
- Replace brake pads as recommended by the manufacturer.
- Regularly check brake fluid levels.
- Have your brakes inspected during routine maintenance visits.
If brake failure led to your accident, a top-rated injury lawyer in New York can assist in holding the responsible party accountable for failing to maintain their vehicle.
Malfunctioning Lights: A Hazard in the Dark
Headlights, brake lights, and turn signals play critical roles in preventing accidents, especially in low-visibility conditions. Malfunctioning lights can make your vehicle nearly invisible to other drivers at night or in inclement weather.
New York state law requires that all motor vehicles be equipped with properly functioning headlights, taillights, and brake lights, as outlined under Vehicle and Traffic Law § 375. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in fines and, more importantly, accidents.
How to Avoid Light-Related Accidents:
- Regularly inspect all vehicle lights for functionality.
- Replace burned-out bulbs immediately.
- Ensure your headlights are correctly aligned to avoid blinding other drivers.
If you’ve been involved in an accident caused by malfunctioning lights, a Long Island accident attorney can help you pursue compensation for any injuries or damages.
Worn-Out Windshield Wipers: A Hidden Danger in Bad Weather
Windshield wipers may seem like a minor aspect of vehicle maintenance, but they are essential in maintaining visibility during rain, snow, or sleet. Worn-out wipers can leave streaks on the windshield, reducing visibility and increasing the likelihood of an accident.
According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), worn windshield wipers are a common but often overlooked hazard contributing to visibility-related accidents. This issue is particularly relevant in Long Island, where weather conditions change rapidly.
Tips for Keeping Windshield Wipers in Top Shape:
- Replace wiper blades every 6 to 12 months or sooner if they show signs of wear.
- Check for cracks or splits in the rubber.
- Ensure the wiper fluid is filled, and the system is working correctly.
If poor visibility due to neglected wipers caused your accident, a car accident lawyer in Long Island can assist you in seeking justice.
Ignored Fluid Levels: The Silent Sabotage
A vehicle relies on various fluids, including engine oil, coolant, and transmission fluid. Low fluid levels can cause overheating, engine failure, and other mechanical issues, leading to accidents.
For instance, low brake fluid can impair braking performance, and insufficient engine oil can cause your engine to seize while driving, leading to loss of control.
Regular Fluid Maintenance Includes:
- Checking and refilling fluids regularly as part of routine vehicle checks.
- Scheduling professional maintenance to catch any leaks or issues before they become severe.
Drivers who fail to maintain their vehicle’s fluid levels may be held liable for accidents caused by their negligence. A top-rated injury lawyer in New York can help you navigate the legal process if fluid negligence causes your accident.
Stay Safe with Regular Maintenance
Neglecting vehicle maintenance puts the driver, other motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians at risk. Routine maintenance costs are minimal compared to an accident’s potentially devastating consequences.
If you’ve been injured in an accident caused by someone else’s failure to maintain their vehicle, you need an experienced Long Island accident attorney.
The Law Offices of Joseph J. Perrini, III have a team of knowledgeable attorneys ready to help you pursue the compensation you deserve. Don’t wait—contact a car accident lawyer in Long Island today for a free consultation.
