Which Auto Safety Issues Am I Overlooking?

March 16, 2020

One thing that motorists can do to reduce the risk of being in a car accident is to ensure that their vehicle is well maintained. With spring approaching, many drivers are removing snow tires and washing their vehicle. However, there are several maintenance-related safety issues that people often overlook. In addition to becoming costly if not taken care of immediately, they can increase the risk of an accident. The following are 10 car safety issues that are overlooked by many car owners:

• Missing airbags: According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), approximately 20 percent of fatal accidents involve a vehicle that has a missing airbag. A mechanic can tell you if the airbag has been previously deployed.
• Damaged bumper: Today’s bumpers use a dense foam to absorb the impact from an accident. However, they only work once. Even if the bumper does not appear to be damaged, the structure could be compressed. As a result, the bumper will not be as effective at absorbing the impact of a future accident.
• Damaged brake lines: If a vehicle’s brakes are not maintained, and the brake lines become rusted or break apart, this can be dangerous. Damaged brake lines do not have any obvious signs, such as squeaking or grinding. Look for signs of leaking brake fluid, holes in the brake lines, or rust damage.
• Damaged headlights: Scratches, cracks, or moisture on the inside of the headlight can impact visibility, particularly at night or during inclement weather. Replace the bulb, or the entire headlight when necessary.
• Steering and suspension issues: Winter chemicals can get past the seals and cause damage. All steering and suspension parts should be checked for damage.
• Weak or dead battery: The extreme temperature changes from winter to spring can cause a weak battery to deteriorate faster. Drivers should check their battery at the beginning of spring.
• Animal damage: Small animals often seek shelter in the engine area of cars. Check for leaves, twigs, or nuts under the hood of the car, as well as signs of chewing or other damage that the animal may have done.
• Improperly inflated tires: This can make it difficult to maintain control of the car and increase the chance of a dangerous blowout.
• Cooling system issues: A properly functioning cooling system is crucial to keeping the engine cool. This should be checked regularly for leaks, damage, or loose connections.
• Damaged drive belts/serpentine belts: Belts should be inspected regularly, particularly for vehicles with high mileage.

Baltimore Car Wreck Lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton Advocate for Victims of Car Accidents

If you were injured in a car accident involving another motorist whose vehicle was not properly maintained, contact the Baltimore car wreck lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton. We will secure the maximum financial compensation you deserve for your injuries and ensure that your rights are always protected. To schedule a free consultation, call us today at 800-547-4LAW (4529) or contact us online.

Our offices are located in Baltimore, Columbia, Glen Burnie, and Prince George’s County, allowing us to represent victims in Maryland, including those in Anne Arundel County, Baltimore County, Carroll County, Harford County, Howard County, Montgomery County, Maryland’s Western Counties, Prince George’s County, Queen Anne’s County, Southern Maryland, and the Eastern Shore, as well as the communities of Catonsville, Essex, Halethorpe, Middle River, Rosedale, Gwynn Oak, Brooklandville, Dundalk, Pikesville, Nottingham, Windsor Mill, Lutherville, Timonium, Sparrows Point, Ridgewood, and Elkridge.