Safety Checks Before Driving

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Baltimore Car Accident Lawyers discuss the benefits of performing safety checks before driving. Many automobile accidents and mishaps can be prevented if drivers took the time to perform a few safety checks on their vehicles on a regular basis. Even the most experienced drivers may not do this, and newer ones might not be aware of these precautions. This is especially important to do before heading out for a long trip, since no one wants their car to break down when they are far from home. Much of the information needed to carry out safety checks can be found in owner’s manuals, which have details about what type of oil to use, correct tire pressure, and other information.

Checking Fluids

Cars and trucks need gas and oil to stay in good working condition. Most vehicles alert drivers when the gas is low, but looking at the gas gauge as soon as the car is turned on is important. If the light is not working or if there is not enough gas to get to the destination, the driver will be in trouble.

When checking the vehicle’s oil, it should be done only when the engine is cool and with the vehicle on a flat surface. Once the hood is opened, the oil dipstick should be wiped with a clean cloth and placed back in to test the oil mark. If it is shown below the minimum mark, more oil is needed. This can be accomplished by following the directions in the manual or going to a gas station.

Coolant fluid and windshield washer fluids should also be checked by opening the hood and locating their reservoirs. If unsure, the driver should refer to the manual. Both should be topped off if needed, especially before long trips.

Tires, Mirrors, and Electronics

Having low pressure or damaged or worn tires can lead to blowouts and flats. It is a good idea to look over the tires from time to time to make sure that they are in good working condition. Most gas stations also have tire pressure gauges and air pumps for customers to use. Otherwise, drivers can purchase these at auto parts stores to use at their homes. Mirrors are also essential for safe driving, so if any are cracked or damaged, they should be replaced. Frequent testing of the indicators, headlights, taillights, and interior lights is also recommended.

Starting a Good Habit

Not all vehicle owners are car-savvy, but this is not a reason to avoid safety checks. Parents can teach their teen drivers how to perform these tasks as part of their driver education; other drivers can ask friends and family for help. There is also the option of taking the car to a local garage, since many will do this for a small fee. In the long run, keeping the vehicle well-maintained and safe is worth the investment.

Baltimore Car Accident Lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton Advocate for Safe Driving

Safety comes first, but car accidents still happen. The trusted Baltimore car accident lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton are here to help you with any type of car accident. We will fight to obtain the compensation you deserve. For a free consultation, complete an online form or call us at 800-547-4LAW (4529) today.

Our offices are located in Baltimore, Columbia, Glen Burnie, and Towson, allowing us to represent car accident 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.