Today’s automobiles are equipped with a vast array of safety features; airbags, anti-lock brakes, traction control, seat belts, 
brake assist, blind spot warning, lane departure warning and the list goes on. While these inventions have made some major strides in making our vehicles safer, there is one vital safety feature that may get overlooked – vehicle maintenance. Vehicle maintenance is a key component to safer driving.
It has been estimated that poorly maintained vehicles are the cause of more than two billion dollars in property damages, lost wages and medical expenses incurred from accidents! The most common causes of accidents due to poorly maintained vehicles is attributed to tires and brakes. In fact, a study conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) determined that vehicles with underinflated tires were three times more likely to be involved in an accident linked to tire problems. Uneven tire pressure or tire pressure that is either too low or too high is also extremely dangerous and can lead to a blowout.
Another key area that is linked to safe driving is the car’s brakes; bad brakes top the list for dangerous car problems. Anytime you feel or hear something unusual when you brake, you should have them checked to see if there is a problem. If you happen to notice a vibration when the brakes are applied or a softness when you press the brake pedal, you need to have them check out by a professional auto mechanic as soon as possible.
Procrastinating or just simply ignoring vehicle maintenance can have some serious consequences. If a vital component in the car fails, such as the brakes or tires, a serious accident could occur – not to mention the added costs of auto repairs. There are some things that just can’t be ignored and brakes and tires fall into that category.
A proactive approach to vehicle maintenance now may cost a driver a bit more up-front, but that investment will pay off in the long run. From higher repair bills due to neglected maintenance as well as a shorter lifespan on their vehicle, that up-front cost will seem small in comparison. It also will ensure the safety of not only the vehicle, but the driver and other drivers on the road around them. Safe driving starts with a safe vehicle, so make sure your vehicle is up to speed on its maintenance.
