More auto accidents occur during the summer months than any other time of year, which may sound surprising. Though, given the number of nearby family destinations in Pennyslvania and New Jersey you may find yourself in more traffic than you’d like and often surrounded by distracted drivers and agressive drivers! Bucks County personal injury lawyer Michael L. Saile, Jr. explains that there are ways to avoid NJ and PA accidents in the summer which include not only defensive driving, but steps as simple as checking your tires before leaving home. Car maintenance is a huge key in preventing summer accidents.
Tire Pressure
Before a long trip is important to make sure your tires are properly inflated. Under inflated tires is a leading cause of tire failure and blowout, often causing unfortunate Pennsylvania accidents that could involve many other cars on the road. The proper inflation varies depending on what type of car you have, but it is always specified in the owner’s manual. It is also important to not forget about the spare tire. That tire is just as important than your other tires because it will be of no help to you after a flat tire if it is not properly inflated. The intense heat of summer days, then the cool down, effects your tires because expansion and contraction come into play. Another reason to keep your tire pressure monitored throughout summer months to make sure the weather hasn’t altered the condition of your tires.
Alignment
All tires come with treads on them, which create the traction on the road. The tread will wear over time, lessening its effectiveness. Keep an eye on the condition of your tire tread and make sure the alignment of your tires is even, which helps in maintaining a good, solid tread. Your owner’s manual will also specify how your alignment should be checked. Many auto servicing facilities provide this check for a reasonable fee, especially if you are having other routine work done at the same time.
Rotation
Tire rotation can also prolong the effectiveness of the treads on your tires. There are specifications on when to get your tires replaced and that is usually based on the how much tread is left in your tires. If the tread is worn down to 2/32 of an inch, it is recommended that you replace your tires. In the meantime, while your tires are still viable, have them rotated at the prescribed intervals of your mechanic or the car manufacturer.
Check your lights
It is so important that all of the lights on your car are in full function when you plan on driving anywhere – in any season. Remember that the Bucks County area is prone to quick, intense rain storms in the summertime. Effective headlights, brake lights, flashers, and blinkers are essential safety tools in the midst of foul weather during any time of the year. The people driving around you need to know what you are doing, whether you are stopping or turning, so they know what they have to do to accommodate. Sometimes Philadelphia area drivers get in the habit of not using a turn signal, but that can be dangerous. It could also result in a traffic ticket being issued to you.
If you plan on traveling any distance, make sure your car is in good shape. If you have been involved in a Bucks County car accident due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Call the experienced personal injury law firm of Cordisco & Saile LLC to find out how a personal injury lawyer may be able to help you. Located in lower Bucks County, we represent accident victims in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Download our FREE PA Car Accident Book – a user friendly guide offering answers to numerous car accident questions.
