In 2019, there were 254 fatalities in Connecticut due to car accidents. In 2020, the number increased to 310.
The causes of these fatal accidents are varied, but many are completely preventable. While issues like speeding, distracted driving, and drunk driving are causes of some of these accidents, others result from improper or no vehicle maintenance.
The good news is that you can reduce the likelihood that you will be involved in an accident with proper vehicle maintenance.
Keep in mind that if you are the victim of a car accident, our law team is here to help. At Jonathan Perkins Injury Lawyers, we can help ensure you receive the compensation needed to recover from your accident and injuries fully.
Keep reading to find out more about the best type of maintenance to ensure your vehicle is safe to drive and to help reduce the possibility of an accident.
Headlight Cleaning and Maintenance
If you turn your vehicle’s headlights on and they illuminate the road ahead, you’re good to go, right? Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case.
Look at the headlights during the day. Does the plastic seem yellowed or dingy? Some vehicle manufacturers put protective films on the lenses to protect the lights. Over time, the sun can damage the film, which creates a foggy or yellow look. If you don’t fix this, it may impair your ability to see well when driving in the dark.
One of the best ways to fix this issue is with a headlight restoration kit. Be sure to follow the included instructions to get the best results. If the results aren’t significant, it may be smart to replace the headlights completely.
Check Your Vehicle’s Fluids Often
You need to check all the fluids that ensure proper and safe operation of your vehicle often. This includes the oil, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and power steering fluid. If you plan to refill the fluids yourself, make sure you use a new, unopened bottle.
An even better strategy is to take your vehicle to a mechanic to check the fluids and refill them if needed.
Inspect Your Tires Regularly
The tires on your vehicle are the only part that actually comes in contact with the ground. Because of this, you need to make sure that they are in a good and safe condition. While ice, snow, and rain can create hazardous conditions, quality, safe tires will help you avoid being involved in an accident. Because of this, it’s a good idea to inspect your tires often.
Look for signs of cracks on the sidewall, any indications of uneven wear, or other issues that may indicate your tires need service. In most cases, if you notice a serious issue, replacement is the best option.
Wiper Blade Inspection and Maintenance
If you want to stay safe while driving, you must be able to see clearly. As time passes, wear and tear will occur, and your wiper blades will need to be replaced.
If you aren’t sure if it is time for this investment, be sure to inspect the blades for signs of cracks, tears, stiffness, or any other indications of wear. If you see any of these, it may be a good idea to go ahead and replace them. This is an inexpensive maintenance task that can help you stay safe while on the road for most vehicles.
Take time to check your vehicle’s level of wiper fluid, too. If you keep the fluid topped up, you can easily remove bugs from the glass and eliminate any streaks. This is going to make sure you can always see clearly.
Call Our Legal Team if You Are Involved in a Car Accident in Connecticut
The tips and information here will help you avoid a car accident in Connecticut. While this is true, if you are involved in an accident that is caused by someone else’s negligence, you should get in touch with our legal team right away. Our auto accident attorneys can review the facts of your case and help you recover the compensation you deserve. While there are no guarantees in these situations, you can count on us to fight for you and help you recover the compensation and damages you deserve.