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Tire Maintenance Key to Safety

On Behalf of | Apr 26, 2018 | Firm News

Allegheny County car accident lawyers discuss the dangers of poor tire maintenance

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 11,000 crashes happen every year due to tire-related issues. Maintaining your tires is critical to your safety and that of passengers traveling with you, as well as other drivers sharing the road.

Good Tire Maintenance

Certain drivers think engine maintenance is the key to a car’s performance and do not give much thought to their tires. Putting off tire maintenance will result in poor performance, potential safety risks, and more money spent down the road buying new tires when neglect has prematurely worn out your current set. The following are main points about tire care that every driver should know.

  • Treads: Tire tread is what provides traction on the road and wicks water in wet conditions. New tires have a tread depth of about 11/32 inch. As the tread wears down, the tires have less traction and require more time to come to a complete stop, thus increasing the risk of hydroplaning. Check your tread depth monthly – the legal limit is 2/32 of an inch, but anything below 4/32 of an inch is not safe in wet conditions.
  • Inflation: How the tire is inflated determines how the tire makes contact with the road. You can see this in how the tread on the tires wears down; another reason to inspect your tread regularly. Over inflation will cause the tire to wear faster in the center of the tread. Underinflation will wear down the edges of the tire more than the center.
  • Pressure: The proper inflation level for your vehicle is on the information label on the inside of the driver-side door. Maintaining the recommended tire pressure will give you the best possible fuel consumption and extend the life of your tires. Always check your tire pressure when the tires are cold, before you start driving, and when outside temperatures are moderate. Checking once a month suffices for most people, but those who live in cold climates or drive long distances should check their tire pressure more often.
  • Rotation and Alignment: Rotating the position of the tires ensures even wear on the tread and extends the life of the tires. How often tires need to be rotated depends on the tire manufacturer and make of the car. Alignment is done to align the tires with each other and with the car’s axis to ensure even wear.

Poor tire maintenance can result in more than just low gas mileage. Tire-related car accidents can cause serious injuries. A tire blow-out could cause you to lose control of your vehicle and crash into nearby cars or pedestrians. Negligent drivers may be held accountable for injuries they cause, and this includes neglecting car and tire maintenance. By inspecting your tires regularly and maintaining them, you can prevent serious injury to yourself and others.

Allegheny County Car Accident Lawyers at AlpernSchubert P.C. Advocate for Victims of Driver Negligence

If you or someone you love has been injured in a car accident caused by the negligence of another party, you may be entitled to compensation. Consult with an Allegheny County car accident lawyer at AlpernSchubert P.C. who will review your case at no cost to you. Call us today at 412-765-1888 or 800-243-6095 or contact us online. From our offices in Pittsburgh, we represent clients throughout western Pennsylvania, including those in Allegheny County, Lawrence County, and Washington County.