While we’ve already addressed what to do after a car accident in a previous blog, there are things we can do to be proactively prepared to handle unlucky road troubles. As much as we all would wish for our experiences on the road to be without error, we all know that problems can happen. Outside of being a good driver and taking your car in for regular maintenance, here are a few things to consider and help protect your travels against the primary causes of road trouble.
Check Your Tires Before Driving And Keep An Air Pressure Gauge
Tires are one of the most important parts of a car as they are the only element of your car that comes in direct contact with the road itself. One simple way to ensure for a smooth and safe ride is to make sure that your tires are aired up properly. This helps in a variety of ways from protecting against wear and tear, from uneven or deflated tires, and saves money on fuel. More effort from the engine is required to move your car when your tires are not properly inflated. A vehicle’s handling and braking can be affected by uneven tires and is even more of a concern in wet conditions. Under inflated tires could cause heat to build up and premature failure. Always keep an air pressure gauge in the glove compartment of your car so you can check the air in your tires at any time and make sure they are at the right level; refer to your owner’s manual for the proper amount of air pressure.
Check Your Fluids And Keep Oil With You
It’s a good practice to open the hood of your car regularly and make sure that your car has fluids, brake fluid, transmission fluid, oil, and windshield washer fluid. Oil in the tank, specifically, helps with proper lubrication of the engine and the car runs more efficiently. Without oil in the tank, the engine can start to overheat quickly and cause serious damage to the engine. It’s best to have an extra quart of oil in your car in case your oil tank has a leak and you need immediate help. Check your owner’s manual for the correct type of oil necessary for your engine.
Keep a Vehicle Emergency Kit with You
In case any car troubles do happen, it’s helpful to carry a variety of supplies to help you in an emergency. We’ve already listed two with an air pressure gauge and an extra quart of oil in your car. In addition to these two, here’s a list of useful items that would help protect you:
- A plastic gas can helps if your car is stalled and you need gas
- Jumper cables are beneficial if your battery will not start and you need a jumpstart
- A can of tire inflator provides a short-term solution for punctures by sealing in seconds so you
- can get to a gas station for repair
- A gallon of antifreeze/coolant to replenish your radiator fluid when needed
- A car jack if you need to replace a tire
- A spare tire (if there’s room)
As a final safeguard, do not assume that your car’s dash warning lights are correct. They are a precaution, but not fail-proof.
Contact Your Car Accident Attorneys in Dallas!
Frenkel Firm wants to keep you safe on the road regardless of the situation. If you find yourself in an auto accident, please contact Frenkel & Frenkel personal injury lawyers for a free consultation at 1-800-834-0000.
