Winter advisories across Utah have been prompting drivers to place chains on their tires before hitting the road. These rules and restrictions are in place to help drivers safely commute across the snow-covered roads. Unfortunately, a large percentage of drivers neglect to adequately attend to their tires before they go out on the road. Not tending to your tires adequately can have dire consequences.
Although we are focusing on chaining tires during the winter months, individuals who neglect the tires on their vehicle can cause accidents during any time of the year. Balding tires and dry rot can cause blowouts that make it difficult for drivers to remain in control.
One growing problem we are noticing year-round is individuals who are neglecting to check the air pressure in the tires. Not making sure tires are properly inflated can create a very dangerous situation for drivers. Unfortunately, underinflated tires are one of the leading causes of blowouts in Utah that cause fatal car accidents.
Still, there are far too many drivers on the road that neglect performing the simple task of monitoring their air pressure weekly to ensure their tires are safe. Not performing this basic task can result in a car accident causing catastrophic injuries. If you are injured in a car accident caused by a negligent driver, contact an experienced car injury attorney as soon as possible.
Tire Pressure Is Extremely Important
When drivers operate their vehicles with underinflated tires, it forces the engine to work harder. This forces the vehicle to burn more fuel while operating. By maintaining proper air pressure, drivers can help their vehicles perform more efficiently. Vehicles with proper tire pressures are also much easier to maneuver during emergencies.
Unfortunately, many drivers believe they can check their tire pressure simply by looking. The eye test is not exactly reliable. Even if the tires on the vehicle look properly inflated, it does not mean that they have the accurate tire pressure. In addition to making it more difficult to control your vehicle, driving with underinflated tires can cause excess wear and tear to the threads of the tires, making it more hazardous to drive. This is especially true in wet and snowy conditions.
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How To Accurate Check The Air Pressure On Your Vehicle’s Tires
Checking the air pressure on your vehicle’s tires is one of the easiest ways you can effectively maintain your vehicle for safety. Unfortunately, a large percentage of drivers either do not perform this task or they are not sure how to.
Before getting started, it is crucial to determine what the tire pressure is supposed to be for your vehicle. Every vehicle lists the tire pressure on the side wall of the tires. Crouch down and look for the area of the tire that says a number, followed by “PSI.” Once you determine what the accurate amount of air is supposed to be in the tire, you can get started.
In order to properly check the air pressure in your tires, simply mount a tire pressure gauge to the valve stem on each tire. A small handheld tire pressure gauge can be purchased at an auto parts store or gas station. You will want to unscrew the cap from the valve stem. If your tires do not have this tiny cap, it is a good idea to purchase some. You can purchase standard black caps or decorative ones. Having valve stem caps on prevents air from leaving the tires as fast.
Unscrew the cap from the tire gauge and place it on the tire’s valve stem. The gauge should immediately provide an accurate reading of the air pressure in your tires. The amount is measured in PSI. Some gauges have a white stick that exits the gauge handling, displaying the amount of air. There is also an electronic handheld device that measures the amount instantly and provides a clear reading to you. Either tool will suffice. If the amount of air in your tire does not match the listed PSI on the side of the tire, then you need to add air or let some out (if the level is too high).
It is best to check the tire pressure in the cold or before you have driven your vehicle for the day. Performing this task once a week will ensure your tires remain safe for traveling. Not accurately monitoring the tire pressure can result in a serious car accident.
What To Do If You Are In A Car Accident
If you are involved in a tire accident caused by another driver’s tire neglect, it is crucial to perform the following tasks.
First, ensure your safety and the safety of others around. You will want to take photographs of the other driver’s vehicle and tires, your vehicle, and the roadways to note the condition. Contact the police and an ambulance. Write down the contact information for any witnesses in case you need to obtain a statement from them at a later time. Write down the at-fault driver’s name, vehicle make and model, insurance information, and contact information. Go to the hospital and get a full exam to check or monitor injuries. Maintaining adequate records of the incident is crucial. You will want to obtain a copy of the police report and all the medical reports. Contact a personal injury attorney as soon as possible.
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A Utah Personal Injury Attorney Can Help You
If you are injured in a car accident in Utah, it is crucial to contact an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible. You may be able to recover compensation for your injuries and damages from the at-fault driver.
Attorneys at Siegfried & Jensen have over 30-years of experience helping accident victims obtain full and fair compensation for their injuries. Accident victims can obtain compensation from the at-fault driver to cover:
- Lost Wages;
- Medical Expenses;
- Pain And Suffering;
- Vehicle Repair Or Replacement; and
- Other Damages.
Contact Siegfried & Jensen at (801) 598-1218 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation today.
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