If you are one who consistently keeps your vehicle well-maintained, you may actually reduce your risk of getting involved in a car accident in Knoxville. According to Consumer Reports, studies indicate that poorly maintained tires can put drivers and other people on the road in danger. In fact, if your tires are underinflated or overinflated by 25 percent or more, your chances of becoming involved in a serious auto accident increases by three times when compared to vehicles that have properly inflated tires.
A study conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration evaluated how bad tires contribute to car accidents. Researchers found that factors, including tire pressure, depth of tire tread and excessive wear and tear, played a role in vehicle accidents. Other aspects, such as driver experience and bad road conditions were also measured. Results indicated that not only are rollovers more likely to occur when vehicles have bad tires, but adverse weather conditions, such as rain and ice, are significantly more hazardous when tires are not properly maintained.
Tire blowouts can also occur when motorists are driving erratically or speeding. In addition, environmental factors, such as excessive heat, can cause tires to act up as well. It is hard to get an accurate representation of how many fatal car accidents are caused by tire problems, as there can be many contributing circumstances surrounding collisions. Researchers agree, however, that making sure your tires are in good working condition is a must before talking your vehicle out on the road.
This information is intended to educate and should not be taken as legal advice.