5 Car Maintenance Tips to Lower Your Risk of an Accident

Car accidents are undoubtedly common. Research shows that over 6 million of them occur each year in the United States. While some of these accidents are the result of negligent drivers, others are caused by lack of maintenance. If you don't maintain your car, you may get into an accident. You can minimize your risk of injury-causing collisions by following these five car maintenance tips.

#1) Check Tire Pressure

When was the last time that you checked the air pressure in your car's tires? Tires that are either underinflated or overinflated can contribute to accidents. Tires are designed to hold a specific amount of air pressure. When overinflated, they may blow. If they are underinflated, they may fail to create traction with the road. For a safer driving experience, check the tire pressure to ensure it features the appropriate pounds per square (PSI) of air pressure.

#2) Listen to Your Brakes

Pay attention to the sound of your car's brakes. Brakes are a critical component. Consisting of pads and rotors, they'll press against your car's wheels, thus allowing your car to slow down and stop. Brakes can wear down over time, however. If you hear a squealing noise coming from underneath your car, you may need to get either the pads or rotors replaced.

#3) Top off Fluids

Another important car maintenance tip is to top off fluids. All cars have fluids. Common types of fluids include engine oil, transmission fluid, coolant, power steering fluid and brake fluid. If you discover that your car is low on any of these fluids, top it off before getting behind the wheel.

#4) Check Your Headlights

You should also check your car's headlights to ensure they both work. In most states, it's illegal to drive at night without two working headlights. Even if your one of your car's headlights works, the other may be blown. A blown headlight will make it difficult for other drivers to see you at night, thereby increasing your risk of an accident.

#5) Prepare an Emergency Kit

It's a good idea to prepare an emergency kit for your car. If your car breaks down, it can get you back on the road. You can buy either a premade emergency kit, or you can build your own. Regardless, there are a few things you should include in an emergency kit, such as jumper cables, safety triangles, a socket wrench, a screwdriver and a flashlight.