When was the last time you checked your tires?

This is the time to check your tires, before loading up the car and heading on vacation down the hot Interstate.  

We have all seen the remanents of blown tires littering the roadway, we have read about serious car accidents due to tire blow-outs, but, have we checked out tires this month?  As an accident lawyer, I recommend you take a few minutes and do so, here is the info:

BANG! The sound is enough to make you lose control of your car, however, the danger is only beginning once the tire blows. A tire blow-out and the ensuing rapid deflation that occurs is dangerous because it happens so quickly, without any warning, causing loss of control of the vehicle, which combined with high speeds, can lead to flipping or other serious accident situations, injuries and fatalities.

Tire separation can be due to a manufacturer's defect, however, for the most part they can be avoided with regular care and maintenance.  

Here are some suggestions for proper care of your tires or prevention of a blow-out:

• Check your tire pressure at least once a month. Do not over or under-inflate, keep them filled to the manufacture's recommendations. Under-inflataed tires can heat up, leading to a blow-out, as well increase the wear on the tire and money spent at the gas pump. (Tire pressure gauges are inexpensive.) 
• If you hit a curb, run over debris in the road, or have other impact damage to your tires, have them checked ASAP.  A blow-out can occur immediately after impact damage or it can be delayed.
• Avoid bald or worn tires. Check the tread: Insert a penny, head down, between the tire treads, if the tread does not cover a part of Lincoln's head, it is time for new tires.  
• Stay current with any recalls regarding your tires.
• Do not overload your vehicle.

If you should encounter a blow-out here are some suggestions:

Don't panic, avoid sudden breaking, but rather, accelerate slightly, keep the steering wheel straight and firm, or slightly "counter-steer" in the opposite direction that the blow-out is causing, to keep in the lane.  Once under control, break slowly and get well off the road.

Also:  When driving, it is very important to keep both hands on the wheel at all times, so that you can be better prepared to deal with any emergency that may arise on the road, including a tire blow-out.  

When was the last time you checked your tires?

For More information:

How to Check Tire Pressure and Inflate tires

 Care and Feeing of Tires

What should I look for when checking my tires? Gainesville accident attorney answers.