The summer season is at its peak and the temperatures are rising. Flirting with 90 degrees serves up a serious problem for motorists. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), underinflated tires lead to sluggish handling, longer stopping distances, increased stress to tire components, and heat buildup. These in turn can lead to catastrophic failure of the tire, such as separation or blowout.
Our New York City car accident lawyers are here to help you to get through the summer season safely — while traveling.
Drivers are encouraged to be aware of how extreme temperatures affect their tires – especially during extended summer heat wave conditions. Increased friction, high-speed driving, excessive cornering and frequent braking during periods of very high temperatures can cause the tire to heat up beyond their design ratings. When this happens, blowouts are common.
And don’t think you can just check your tire pressure…and forget about it. Tire pressure has to be checked periodically to assure that the influences of time, changes in ambient temperatures or a small tread puncture have not caused deflation.
This becomes even more important for those planning a driving vacation this summer. That’s because emergency roadside service will always be more costly and inconvenient than will having normal vehicle servicing procedures completed ahead of time.
According to the NHTSA, tires were responsible for more than 115,000 injuries and close to 3,500 fatalities on American roads during a four year time period (2005-2009).
Consider these safety tips to help keep your tires in top-notch shape and improve your travel safety:
-Follow the recommended tire pressure in pounds-per-square-inch (PSI) for your vehicle. This information is found on the vehicle placard typically inside the car door and in the vehicle owner’s manual.
-You should always keep a tire gauge in your vehicle. Check the PSI in your tires frequently. Your PSI can change every month so it’s important that you’re checking more frequently.
-If you’ve got a newer vehicle that comes with a tire pressure monitoring system, make sure that you address the problem when that light flashes on your dashboard.
-Know how long you should keep tires. Some companies prefer 6 years, while others say they’re good for 10 years. Some need changed every 18-24 months.
-Make sure to check the sidewalls of your tires for any gouges, cuts, bulges or other irregularities.
-Check the owner’s manual in your vehicle to see which time frame is right for you.
-Keep an eye on the tread on your tires. If is starts to wear, it’s time for new ones. Your tread should be no smaller than 2/32 of an inch.
-Be cautious when traveling in inclement weather. This can hinder the abilities of your tire as well.
-Check your tires before heading out on that summer vacation you’ve been awaiting.
-When all else fails, have tires inspected by a professional.
If you or someone you love has been injured or killed in a traffic accident, contact the Law Offices of Nicholas Rose, PLLC for s free consultation. Call 1-877-313-7673.
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