Oklahoma Summer Driving Safety : Oklahoma Vehicle Accident Lawyers

Oklahoma Summer Driving Safety

Being aware of various driving hazards and taking precautions is the first step to preventing motor vehicle dangers and accidents. Take the time now to check the condition of your vehicle and make any repairs.

Windshield Safety

If your windshield has a rock chip or ding at winter's end, that damage needs to be repaired before "thermal shock" causes a major crack. Thermal shock can occur when cold air from the air conditioning blows directly on a windshield that is hot from exposure to the summer sun.

The windshield is an important element to the overall of structure of the vehicle. If you let a ding or crack increase, it could lead to a larger crack jeopardizing the structural integrity of the vehicle. This is could be a major danger as the windshield is a key component in the rollover safety and as a passenger-side airbag deflection point on most late model vehicles. To attain optimum consumer safety you should repair or replace the damaged windshield.

Fluids

Checking fluids is the least expensive and most important preventive maintenance you can do. Oil should be changed frequently, about every 3,000 to 5,000 miles depending on manufacturer recommendations.

Remember to flush your radiator and change your engine coolant every two years. The summer in Oklahoma is extremely hard on a vehicle's cooling system, so inspect your radiator for obvious signs of corrosion or leaking. If in doubt, have a mechanic check the radiator to make certain it is not plugged or at risk of failure.

Make sure you also check and fill to recommended levels other fluids integral to your vehicle's performance. These fluids include:

Power steering
Transmission
Battery
Radiator
Brake
Windshield washer

Batteries and Corroded Cables

Oklahoma summer heat can wreak havoc on batteries. The average life of a battery is approximately 3 years. If your battery is at or near that age, then it is a good idea to have the battery replaced. Have a qualified technician test your battery and inspect the cable ends and battery terminals. If any corrosion exists on the terminals and cables, the trained professional should remove it.

Anything Made of Rubber

Worn, bald or badly aligned or balanced tires can mean accidents. Be sure to check your owner's manual for the recommended tire pressure. Tire pressure is critical in summer, especially when carrying heavy loads. Under-inflated tires cause heat build up that may lead to sudden tire failure or blowout.

It is estimated that U.S. consumers waste approximately $2 billion annually on fuel due to the additional rolling resistance created by under inflated tires.

If traveling in remote areas of Oklahoma, it may be wise to carry a full-size spare tire instead of an emergency spare or donut. Temporary emergency spares usually have a 50-to-100 mile life expectancy, which may be inadequate for long trips. Be sure that the spare is also inflated to the proper pressure.

Rubber parts under your hood also need maintenance. Radiator, heater and vacuum hoses, among others, should be inspected for cracks and leaks. Take a roll of duct tape with you on your trip as it great in temporarily fixing hoses. Also, inspect all belts for tears and splits.

Lights

Check to make sure your headlights, taillights and turn signals are working properly.

Spark Plugs

Worn or misfiring spark plugs can affect engine performance. Worn spark plugs waste gas and increase exhaust emissions, so have them checked and replaced as necessary.

Brakes

Do not postpone needed brake work. It is dangerous to drive with poorly performing brakes.

Be Prepared

Before you leave for a drive, be sure to pack extra radiator coolant, several quarts of oil, safety flares and whatever tools you might need. Always carry a roadside emergency and first aid kit.

We can handle your potential legal case if you are in any of these Oklahoma cities. Even if your city is not listed you may still speak with one of our Oklahoma auto accident attorneys by filling out our contact form or calling us toll-free at 1 (866) 664-0400.

Ada, Afton, Altus, Alva, Anadarko, Ardmore, Atoka, Bartlesville, Blackwell, Broken Arrow, Catoosa, Chandler, Checotah, Chickasha, Claremore, Clinton, Del City, Duncan, Durant, Edmond, El Reno, Elk City, Enid, Erick, Frederick, Glenpool, Grove, Guthrie, Guymon, Henryetta, Idabel, Lawton, Locust Grove, Mcalester, Miami, Midwest City, Moore, Muskogee, Norman, Oklahoma City, Okmulgee, Owasso, Pauls Valley, Perry, Ponca City, Poteau, Pryor, Roland, Sallisaw, Sand Springs, Savanna, Shawnee, Stillwater, Stilwell, Stroud, Tahlequah, Tulsa, Vinita, Wagoner, Weatherford, Woodward, Yukon

Oklahoma Vehicle Accident Lawyers