With spring in full bloom here in Virginia, it is just a matter of time before summer arrives. This means day trips and vacations. According to national statistics, it is estimated that 75 percent of Americans take to the roads during the summer month, the majority of them averaging three to four road trips between the Memorial Day and Labor Day holidays. It is anticipated that this year roads may be even busier with COVID restrictions being eased across the country.
If you are planning any kind of traveling this summer, it is important to make sure your vehicle is properly maintained to help avoid mechanical issues and breakdowns. This also helps decrease your risk of being injured in a car accident because of a mechanical failure or faulty part or equipment.
Fluids
One of the most common issues for drivers in the summer months is overheating vehicles. Check the area around your car’s radiator and make sure there is no debris around it. It is not uncommon for leaves and other materials to have accumulated around the area during the fall and winter months. It is recommended that a vehicle’s coolant system be flushed out and refilled every two years. Owners should periodically check the coolant level to make top off if needed. This is also a good way of discovering if there are any leaks or other issues. If you do need to add any coolant, make sure it is a mix of 50 percent water and 50 percent anti-freeze.
Vehicle owners should also change the oil as recommended and check the oil at least once a month. If the oil is low, make sure to add the amount needed, but never overfill. You could damage the vehicle’s engine by doing so. Also make sure to check the vehicle’s brake fluid, transmission fluid, and other liquids to ensure they are all at proper levels.
Tires
The tires on a vehicle should be checked at least once a month, and always before embarking on any kind of road trip. Check to make sure there is good tread on the tires and that there is no sign of uneven wear. Make sure the tire pressure on each tire is at the manufacturer’s recommendation. And while checking your tires, don’t forget to check the spare tire, as well.
Miscellaneous
Vehicle owners should also check the windshield wipers and replace them if they are starting to show wear and tear. Check all the vehicle lights and replace any that have burnt out. Also, check the battery and the cables to ensure there is no corrosion. It is also a good idea to have a qualified mechanic check out the vehicle’s air conditioning system at the beginning of the summer to check and repair any issues.
Contact a Virginia Injury Lawyer
Unfortunately, no matter how many safety precautions a driver takes, there is always the risk of a car accident because of another driver’s negligence. A Virginia car accident attorney understands that when a victim sustains injuries in a car accident caused by another party, it can often be a confusing and overwhelming time. Not only are you dealing with the pain and recovery of the injuries, but you also may be dealing with financial issues, worried about how you will pay the medical bills for your treatment, and the income you are losing from being unable to work.
Here at Shapiro, Appleton & Washburn, we have been advocating for injured clients since 1985 and will do all we can to ensure you receive the best possible outcome under the circumstances of your case. If you would like to meet with one of our skilled Virginia car accident attorneys to find out how we can help, call us today at 800-752-0042 for a free case evaluation.
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