Importance of Following a Car Maintenance Schedule

Within the last decade, the number of car accidents caused by defective or dangerous auto parts has risen dramatically. In 2009, a defect with the accelerator in several Toyota and Lexus models caused more than 100 U.S. car crashes. Sadly, many car owners were not aware of the auto part defect until it was too late and while not every defect is detectable, paying close attention to a car’s maintenance needs could possibly prevent a tragic accident from occurring.

Car maintenance is not as difficult as it may seem and can be done by almost anyone with a few basic tools. Here are some general guidelines for maintaining your moving piece of machinery, but when in doubt, always refer to your car’s manual for important service markers (e.g. oil changes, brake checks, and air filter changes).

•  Change oil every 3,000 to 10,000 miles. Oil extends the life of a car’s engine and is vital to the performance of a car. Oil changes are inexpensive and can be done easily by vehicle owners.
• Rotate tires every 6,000 miles. Rotating the tires can improve gas mileage and extend the life of tires. Tires should be checked for leaks, wear, and debris weekly.
• Tire pressure should be checked every other week. Most average sedans require 32 to 36 pounds per square inch (PSI).
• Brakes and brake rotors should be checked every 5,000 miles. Brake fluid should be inspected every 30,000 miles.
• Headlights and taillights should be checked every 5,000 miles.
• Windshield wipers should be inspected for wear and tear every 15,000 miles.

Unfortunately, auto part mechanical and electrical failure is not the only cause of car accidents. Many car collisions are caused by poor road conditions, flawed road design, and bad weather conditions. Sadly, the greatest threat to drivers is other drivers. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, as much as 50 percent of all U.S. car accidents are caused by distracted drivers, fatigued drivers, speeding drivers, intoxicated drivers and aggressive drivers.

As a California personal injury attorney, I have seen the devastating effects a serious car accident related injury or death can have on victims and victims’ families. Although not every car crash can be prevented, if keeping our cars well maintained could possibly prevent a tragic accident from occurring, then I encourage every vehicle owner to put their cars on a regular maintenance schedule.