According to WBBJ 7, Tennessee residents need to be cautious about hot weather this summer as there are many dangers associated with the excessive heat that is so common in the state. While the heat can cause many serious health issues, it can also be bad news for your car as well as your person.
Our Johnson City injury lawyers know that cars can get really hot in the summer sun and that it is essential to make sure no kids or pets are left inside. However, the inside of your car isn’t the only thing that matters. The tires on your vehicle can also be adversely affected by the warm summer weather, sometimes leading to a tire problem that causes your car to go out of control while you are driving. Recently, the NHTSA issued a safety advisory warning about this issue, reminding motorists of the importance of checking their tire pressure regularly and maintaining their tires properly during the summer days.
Keeping Your Tires in Top Shape This Summer
According to the NHTSA, there are about 11,000 accidents each year that are caused by tire problems and tire failure. These crashes can occur due to the separation of tire treads. The crashes can also happen because tires become bald or because tires are under-inflated. Tire blow-outs are also far too common and can be deadly.
Unfortunately, problems with tires are very likely to happen in the summer months because the excess heat of the pavement can cause issues with the rubber on the tires and can increase the chances of tire tread separation and other related problems. As the cars travel along the hot pavement and friction is created, the tires can be damaged by the excess warmth.
Because tire problems are so likely in the summer months, NHTSA has urged drivers to take extra precautions in order to make sure their vehicles are safe. Some of the tips provided by the NHTSA include:
- Following manufacturers recommended guidelines for tire pressure. Tire pressure is measured in pounds per square inch (PSI) and the manufacturer recommendations for your vehicle are found in the owner’s manual and inside of the car’s door.
- Checking out the info in your owner’s manual. While you have the manual out and are looking for info on PSI, you can also take note of some other key info. For example, your manual should let you know the maximum time you can go before replacing the tires (usually six to ten years max). Your manual will also let you know if your car has a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) and how to use it.
- Using a tire pressure gauge regularly. You should keep one in your car and use it to make sure that the tires are inflated correctly.
- Watching for signs of trouble. Raised sections on the bottom of the tire tread’s grooves can be an indicator that tread wear has occurred and that tire replacement is needed.
By making sure you follow these tips and keep a careful eye on your tire pressure during the excess summer heat, you can reduce the chances of being involved in a crash that injures yourself or others.
If you are in an accident in Johnson City, Tennessee, contact Meade Injury Law Group today at (423) 464-7779for a free consultation.
