In our last article on being safe in your car we began a conversation about tire safety.
With statistics placing the number of deaths due to inappropriate tire care at about four hundred persons a year, a review of proper tire care is a timely topic indeed.
Adequate tire pressure is the second most important obligation for drivers in relation to tire safety.
Unfortunately, under inflation is the leading cause of tire failure and improper air pressure can cause a tire to blow out or fail. Consider the following information gleaned from our resources regarding air pressure in tires:
"Air Pressure: Tire pressure is measured in pounds per square inch, or psi. Tires lose air through the process of permeation. Changes in outdoor temperature can affect the rate at which a tire loses air. Typically, a tire loses one pound to two pounds of pressure per month, and even more in warm weather".
To help avoid under inflation of tires have the air pressure checked professionally at least once a month. This can be done at your dealership or a reputable service station.
Another method is to or buy a good air pressure gauge and carry it in your car.
Now I realize there are many car buffs out there who pride themselves on caring for their own automobiles and I would never discourage that endeavor. But I would advance the notion that for those of us less mechanically inclined there are a number of automobile service companies that employ trained experts whose job is to detect defects in all areas of the automobile - including tires - and a regular check-up is the most prudent course of action for car owners.
Just remember, your tires keep you rolling and the safety of you and your passengers depend on them so start a tire inspection safety routine.
Greg Baumgartner is a Houston auto accident attorney and the founder of the Baumgartner Law Firm. If you have questions regarding an injury from a car accident and would like to speak with a Houston injury law firm call the Baumgartner Firm.
