There is no argument for the statement that poor owner vehicle maintenance can cause auto accidents. One source finds that up to twenty percent of vehicle accidents are caused by the negligence of car and truck owners.
Most commonly - brakes that are not regularly replaced and worn tires are just two of the causes of collisions that could be avoided if vehicle owners took better care of their cars.
In addition, car buffs that do custom modifications may put their vehicles at risk of damaging others. Added items such as spinners and spoilers can come off in an accident if not properly secured.
Other types of maintenance that may not seem as obvious include changing windshield wipers when they are cracked and ineffective - otherwise a driver's vision may be hindered - particularly in wintry conditions such as snow, sleet, and ice. At the same time, broken heaters and defrosters can cause windows to also ice up and make it difficult to see as well.
Tail and brake lights that are not replaced are especially dangerous. When a driver is either unable to signal others around him of his or her intentions to change lanes or directions or when there is no way to indicate that you are slowing down because the brake lights don't work - then you place everyone including yourself in grave danger.
Too, side mirrors and the rear view mirror should be operable (I have seen cars that are missing either or both of these very simple but vital safety devices).
One final word of advice - take your car in for routine maintenance. At the risk of sounding too dramatic - it may actually save a life.
Greg Baumgartner is a Texas semi truck accident lawyer and the founder of the Baumgartner law firm, which is dedicated to helping injury victims seek civil justice. For a free no obligation consultation with a Texas personal injury lawyer call the Baumgartner Firm at 281-587-1111.
