How Can I Prepare My Car for the Fall Season?

Throughout the year, proper car maintenance keeps all drivers and passengers safe. When the seasons change to cooler weather, however, specific concerns emerge that threaten car safety. When fall arrives, car owners should make a special effort to guard against the upcoming low temperatures and weather conditions.

As temperatures drop and autumn sets in, the mechanical components of motor vehicles can be negatively impacted. Car owners should get ahead of the threats by addressing these concerns with thorough maintenance check-ups on their vehicles. Additionally, seasonal changes in the weather should bring a driver’s attention to making preparations to avoid being stuck out in the cold. Getting ready for the cooler driving season should include stocking up on emergency supplies and tools. The following advice is a checklist to use when preparing a car for autumn:

Complete a Full Evaluation

Fall is a good time for a full evaluation of a vehicle’s overall condition. Drivers should routinely check and keep track of their vehicles. In addition to evaluating the fitness of the engine and transmission, basic elements of a typical check-up include checking oil and fluid levels. Worn or damaged belts and hoses should also be replaced.

Check All Tires

All tires should be inspected. When roads get slippery due to wet leaves or morning frost, worn out tires become serious hazards. Tires should be replaced when worn tread decreases traction with the surface of the road. Tires should be rotated to prevent uneven wear. Additionally, tire pressure is lost more quickly in cold temperatures. Be sure tires are inflated to meet the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Inspect Brakes

Having dependable brakes is essential to being able to drive safely at all times of the year. Slippery, leaf-strewn roads increase driving hazards Drivers should ensure their brakes are working properly heading into autumn. Brake pads should be examined for wear.

Ensure Visibility

Windshield wipers and blades should be in good working order to allow the driver to clearly see the road. Headlights and fog lights should also be in good shape to help drivers when darkness or fog threatens visibility.

Replace Battery

Autumn prep should also include a battery test. Corrosion buildup or loose cables can be easily corrected, but it is better to address this before it causes a breakdown. Replace a battery before it dies in the middle of a road trip.

Check Heating System

A driver should have their heating system checked. Being able to drive in comfort is one reason, but being stranded without heat is extremely dangerous.

Have an Emergency Kit

A driver should have a few items on hand in case an emergency happens. Drivers should travel with jumper cables, flashlights, and first-aid kits. Fall is a good time for car owners to stock their vehicles with shovels, ice scrapers, warm gloves, and blankets.

What Should I Do After a Car Collision?

Many people are injured in car wrecks each day throughout the country. When car accident victims are seriously injured, they deserve fair compensation from at-fault parties. After a car accident, a victim should obtain legal representation in order to receive compensation.

Washington, D.C. Car Accident Lawyers at the Law Offices of Duane O. King Offer Legal Counsel to Clients Injured in Car Crashes

If you were hurt in a car accident, you should contact our Washington, D.C. car accident lawyers at the Law Offices of Duane O. King. We have the experience to help you obtain damages for your injuries and other losses. Contact us online or call us at 202-331-1963 for a free consultation. Located in Washington, D.C., we serve clients throughout Prince George’s County, including Laurel, Beltsville, Adelphi, College Park, Greenbelt, Mitchellville, Woodmore, Greater Upper Marlboro, Springdale, Largo, Bowie, Capitol Heights, District Heights, Forestville, Suitland, and Seat Pleasant, Clinton, Oxon Hill, Temple Hills, and Fort Washington.