If you’re a car owner, it’s vital to carry out preventative maintenance on your vehicle to reduce the risk of road traffic accidents (RTAs) occurring.

There are sensible precautions you can take, and this guide to how to avoid RTAs is a good place to start.

Steps like checking your tyre pressure regularly, and changing your oil, help identify issues before they become serious problems.

 

What is the biggest cause of road accidents?

 

There is a correlation between checking your car and preventing accidents because neglecting regular maintenance can have extreme consequences.

Faulty brakes can cause accidents as there is a compromised stopping potential, meaning you will have less control over your vehicle.

Tyres that aren’t inflated properly and have reduced tread can lead to worse traction and greater instability, causing skidding. Worn tyres are especially dangerous in wet conditions because they won’t grip the road surface properly.

Lights that aren’t functioning correctly can obscure your vision and cause collisions, especially during poor light conditions.

If other components of your car aren’t functioning correctly, such as your suspension or steering, it may also mean you have less control over your car, thus increasing the risk of accidents.

Even if you don’t have a collision, failing to keep your car in good condition makes an unexpected breakdown more likely.

 

How to carry out key checks

 

Read the manual

 

Reading the manual that comes with your vehicle is essential.

If you didn’t receive one when you bought your car, the same details can usually be sourced from the manufacturer’s website.

By studying the manufacturer’s recommendations, you can usually devise an appropriate maintenance schedule for your specific vehicle, not just cars in general.

For example, an owner’s manual will tell you how often you need to change your oil, filters, timing belts, and much more.

It should be consulted when you’re encountering any issues with your car, or if you need to find out more information about an identified issue.

 

Key checks

 

You need to carry out your own inspections regularly.

That doesn’t require expert motoring knowledge, but there are plenty of resources that can help.

These checks can include making sure the lights are working, the tyre pressure is what should be, listening out for odd sounds, checking wiper fluid levels, assessing the battery, cleaning contact points, and replacing your windscreen wipers when you start to notice streaks on the windscreen.

Carrying out regular oil changes will also help to keep your engine running smoothly.

Belts and hoses should also be inspected for tears or uneven wear.

It’s also wise to inspect windscreens and windows as cracks or damage can obscure your vision.

Your tyres need to be rotated and balanced on a regular basis too – your manual will tell you how often this needs to happen.

Spark plugs should also be checked; if they cease to function optimally, your car will be less fuel efficient.

Regular checks and maintenance ensure issues are flagged before time, thus reducing the risk of accidents caused by

mechanical failure.

 

Other benefits of preventative maintenance

 

Addressing minor issues before they become major problems can save you significant money. Indeed, neglecting small concerns can lead to expensive repairs in the future.

A well-maintained car operates more efficiently, translating to better fuel economy. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and proper tyre inflation help you avoid costly bills.

Not only that, proper maintenance is crucial for extending the lifespan of your vehicle. Taking care of your car now ensures that it runs effectively for many years to come.

Regular maintenance also reduces emissions, making your vehicle more environment-friendly. Some parts of the UK even offer tax incentives for environment-conscious car owners.

 

Why Wafer Philips?

 

We understand that road traffic accidents can happen, even if you have done everything in your power to prevent them occurring.

If you’ve been involved in a road traffic accident (RTA), Wafer Phillips Solicitors can provide expert assistance.

If you’ve been injured in an RTA through no fault of your own, you’re entitled to claim compensation.

We have accumulated more than a quarter-century of experience securing financial compensation for our clients in Liverpool and across the North West of England.

Our legal team can guide you through the compensation process, making it as straightforward and stress-free as possible.

Whether it’s handling paperwork, negotiating with insurers, or representing you in court, we’ve got you covered.

We assist victims of accidents involving uninsured drivers and can help you to understand the main causes of road accidents. Our expertise also extends to providing guidance on roadside first aid.

We will do everything in our power to deliver the best result, and work closely alongside you to gather as much vital evidence as we need to make your claim a success.

We work on a no-win, no-fee basis and always aim for the best deal possible.

You can contact us at any time if you have been in a road accident and suspect you could be entitled to compensation.

 

Getting in touch

 

To find out more about making road traffic accident claims with Wafer Philips, call 0151 256 7898​ or send an email to enquiries@waferphillips.co.uk

Let Wafer Phillips be your trusted partner in seeking justice and compensation for your road traffic claim.