While everyone knows that keeping their vehicle well-maintained is important, the fact of the matter is that many people do not perform regular maintenance like they should. The result is that many people are driving around with vehicles that are not as safe to drive as they should be, increasing the risk of a serious accident. Here are seven ways that poor maintenance can cause car accidents:

  1. Worn out brakes
    • Over time, brakes can wear out and become less effective at stopping a vehicle. If brake pads are not replaced regularly, it is possible they may not function properly in an emergency, increasing the chances of an accident.
  2. Misaligned suspension
    • While a misaligned suspension rarely will directly cause an accident, it can potentially contribute to one. This is because the suspension plays an important part in limiting damage to your vehicle from bumps or uneven road surfaces, which can affect your ability to maneuver in an emergency.
  3. Burned out headlights
    • Just like any other light bulb, the headlights and turn signals on your vehicle can burn out over time. If you do not promptly replace them, you may literally be left in the dark if you are forced to drive at night, making the risk of car accidents more likely.
  4. Worn out or under inflated tires
    • Tires need to be kept properly inflated at all times, and should be replaced when the tread begins to wear out. If your tires are not kept well-maintained, it can significantly affect your ability to control your vehicle, especially in inclement weather or other dangerous road conditions.
  5. Power steering failures
    • Every vehicle manufactured today has power steering, which relies on several important components that need to be well-maintained. If you do not make sure to replace your power steering fluid, replace worn out belts, or maintain other components, your steering may fail you, increasing the risk of car accidents.
  6. Transmission failure
    • Your transmission is a critical part of your vehicle, ensuring that the appropriate amount of power goes to your wheels at any given time. If your transmission begins to slip or otherwise fails, it can result in a potential catastrophe that may lead to an otherwise avoidable accident.
  7. Engine failure
    • Keeping your engine well-maintained with regular oil changes and tune-ups is essential to avoiding disaster on the road. If you fail to perform regular maintenance, it can dramatically increase the chances of car accidents.

The personal injury attorneys at David J. Lorber & Associates, PLLC will work with you to help you get justice for you or your loved ones who were hurt by someone else’s negligence. For comprehensive personal injury law services in New York, call David J. Lorber & Associates, PLLC at (631) 750-0900 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation at our Setauket office. 

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