Vehicle maintenance is vital in road safety, but can it prevent accidents? Maintenance ensures that your vehicle’s components work as they should, from the tires to the brakes. Neglecting vehicle maintenance can lead to malfunctions at the worst possible times.
Routine tasks like oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections are essential for the best performance. You should check tire pressure regularly, keeping the windshield and wipers in good shape. Following the manufacturer’s recommended scheduled maintenance, potential problems can be noted, addressed, and prevented.
Vehicles in good condition are more predictable on the road. Properly inflated tires and well-maintained brakes improve traction and responsiveness, reducing the likelihood of skidding or losing control, especially in adverse weather conditions. Accidents can occur from mechanical failures that could have been prevented through regular maintenance. Addressing issues like worn-out components and broken taillights proactively can significantly reduce the risk of accidents. Regular tire inspections and proper inflation levels can help detect problems early and prevent blowouts – those can be catastrophic, especially at high speeds.
What About Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS?)
ADAS technologies like lane departure warnings and backup cameras have changed the way people drive and certainly prevent accidents. Still, ADAS is not foolproof. Predictive maintenance technologies can be beneficial for car owners in other ways. They analyze data from your car, like mileage, fuel consumption, and engine performance, alerting you to potential issues before they become serious. That allows you to address problems proactively, reducing the risk of accidents and breakdowns.
What Other Benefits Does Vehicle Maintenance Provide?
Another essential benefit of vehicle maintenance is increasing your safety. If your car’s ability to operate is impaired, there are risks to you and your passengers. Consistent car maintenance will also add years to a vehicle’s life. When the parts are well attended to, they will likely last longer. It might also have a higher selling value if you trade it in. Besides that, you might also get better fuel mileage and save money on repairs.
Virginia Car Accident Laws
Depending on the circumstances, drivers who get into accidents with poorly maintained vehicles may be entitled to compensation. The process is always governed by state laws, including these for Virginia:
- Virginia is an “at-fault” state: Since Virginia is not a no-fault state, you can file a claim against an allegedly at-fault driver’s insurance company or file a lawsuit against them. Vehicle owners must carry liability insurance or pay the Uninsured Motor Vehicle Fee.
- Contributory negligence: This applies when more than one party is deemed responsible for a car accident. In Virginia, you cannot receive monetary compensation if your negligence played any part in the crash. Most states have comparative negligence, which is more lenient.
- Statutes of limitations: In Virginia, you have up to two years to file lawsuits for injuries and property damage related to motor vehicle accidents, starting on the date of occurrence. When there is a fatality, the timeline begins on the date of death.
Our Alexandria Car Accident Lawyers at the Law Offices of Duane O. King Advocate for Proper Vehicle Maintenance
Contact our knowledgeable Alexandria car accident lawyers at the Law Offices of Duane O. King today for legal assistance. Call 202-331-1963 or complete our online form to schedule a free consultation. Located in Washington, D.C., Alexandria, and Falls Church, Virginia, we serve clients in 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, Seat Pleasant, Clinton, Oxon Hill, Temple Hills, and Fort Washington.
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