The trusted attorneys at The Law Offices of Vincent J. Ciecka, P.C. handle car accident cases stemming from tire failure and want to shed some light on this overlooked subject.
The importance of proper tire pressure in a vehicle can’t be overstated, especially for trucking companies whose large vehicles pose a danger to other motorists when not maintained properly. Poorly manufactured tires are an issue affecting motorists’ safety, as well.
While you can’t control a tire company’s quality control, you can try to protect yourself by checking the air pressure in your tires on a routine basis (approximately once a month).
Here’s a breakdown of some key facts you need to know about vehicle tire pressure.
- Why is it so important? Checking your tire pressure is imperative to help maximize your tire life, improve fuel efficiency, even out wear and tear, and ensure a smoother ride. Not to forget the safety aspect, underinflated tires have an increased risk of failure and damage that can lead to reduced vehicle control, tire blowouts, and potential crashes.
- What’s the recommendation? Knowing the recommended air pressure for your tires is easy to find out. If you drive a newer car, that information can typically be found on a sticker inside the driver’s side door. If it isn’t, check out the tires section of your owner’s manual. PSI (pounds per square inch) will be listed as determined by your vehicle’s manufacturer. Stick to that number for driving safety and optimal performance from your automobile.
- What should you avoid? You won’t be able to check your tire’s air pressure with a simple eye test, or by kicking or hitting the tires.
- When to check. Knowing when to check your tire pressure is half the battle. Even brand new tires with minimal wear can be losing air. Fluctuating temperatures outside, how far you drive daily, and carrying a heavy load can all affect your tire pressure. So a safe bet is to regularly check pressure once a month, in addition to if you hit a pothole or curb, your vehicle pulls to one side, or the weather changes drastically.
- How to do it. Your tire pressure can be checked at home or a gas station, but make sure you haven’t been driving for too long to get an accurate reading. Remove the caps on your tires’ air valves, place a tire pressure gauge into the valve stem and press down quickly, check the PSI reading and compare to the recommended amount by your vehicle’s manufacturer.
- Fill it up. If the pressure is too low in your tires, just fill it up with an air pump to the ideal level.
Follow the above guidelines and hit the road for a safer ride. But if you do find yourself in an accident and are looking for a Camden County personal injury lawyer, contact the team at The Law Offices of Vincent J. Ciecka, P.C. Our personal injury lawyers in South Jersey know what to do to get the bottom of a car accident injury case. Call us today at 856-283-0589.
