5 Vehicle Safety Checklist to Ensure a Safe Drive on the Road

Did you know you can avoid some accidents by performing a safety checklist before getting on the road? Most car accidents are due to a driver’s negligence. 

Performing a safety checklist will help you detect some of the car problems, especially if it’s a long-distance drive. According to the auto safety and maintenance report by the Federal Trade Commission, going through your car is essential to your safety. The report further states that you might detect strange noise, unusual odour, and even sense a difference in your vehicle handles.

So before you start driving, take your time, and perform these safety checklists.

1.      Car Tires

The most important thing to check on your car is the tires. Check to see whether the tires have worn out. This can be easily spotted from worn-out threads that are a clear indication that you need to replace them.

Also, if you can no longer see the pattern of the treads of your tires, it’s time to replace the tire. Lack of sufficient tread means because it means you won’t accelerate or even brake safely, particularly on wet roads.

One of the best ways of checking for your tire tread is by using Abraham Lincoln’s coin. Place the coin between the car’s tread blocks.

If the coin fully sinks on the tread, then you are good to go. However, if it is exposed, then you need to replace the tire.

Also, make sure you check the tread depth around the tire to ensure they are even. Any inconsistencies mean you have to perform wheel suspension or have your steering wheel checked for any problems.

2.      Tire Pressure

Tire pressure is as significant as the tire treads. Under-inflated and overinflated tires can lead to lots of problems, including a blowout.

Good tire pressure has various advantages. In a report by the department of energy, good tire pressure improves fuel economy. Also, a good tire pressure prolongs the life of your tires and also ensure the tires wear out evenly.

The best time to conduct a tire pressure is in the morning when the tires are cold, using a tire gauge pressure. Ensure the pressure is within the pressure range of your car.

If its under-inflated, inflate it to the recommended range. If its over-inflated, deflate it and ensure the tires have equal pressure.

3.      Car Lights

Your car lights are important, especially if you are planning to travel for a long distance like if you are going on a road trip to South Africa. Lights help you see correctly and avoid hitting pedestrians or other motorists on the road. You also risk getting a fine if your lights are not in good condition.

Turn on your headlights then go to the front of your vehicle to check them out. If the lights are dim, you need to clean it or have it replaced.

Also, ensure the taillights, brake lights, and your turn signals are in good working condition. To check the turn signals, step on the brakes and ask someone to check your rear lights as you engage each signal.

4.      Check the Battery and Fluids

If you have been having problems starting the car or closing the windows, then you have a problem with your car battery. Open the hood of your car and check the battery for any corrosion.

If you have no idea what you are doing, call your mechanic for inspection.

While under the hood, also check for the essential oils of your car. These include engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, and even windshield washer fluid.

To must first start your vehicle before checking for transmission oil. Then wipe the dipstick before inserting it in the fill tube.

Pull out the stick and check the level of the fluid against the markings in the stick. In case the stick comes out with a burnt smell or particles in it, call your mechanic and have him drain and change it.

If the fluid is clean but not enough, use a funnel to refill it up to the cut off line.

5.      Steering Wheel

Inspecting your steering wheel is also a safety feature that you should not ignore. An accident can quickly occur if your steering wheel is not in a proper working condition.

Go to empty parking and start your vehicle. Then drive around slowly as you turn the wheel to every side. If there are no problems, you are good to go. But you may need to call a mechanic if there are any issues.

With that said, an accident will always remain unanticipated happening. That is why you need to have contact with one or two car accidents within your list. Their help will come hardy someday when you find yourself involved in an accident. If you live within Fort Lauderdale, there are several Fort Lauderdale car accident lawyers you can get their contacts and be assured of help in times of need.

Final Word

There is nothing as important as driving a car that you trust is in good condition. You are not only assured of your safety but also a long-distance journey without any incidences. Therefore, your safety checklist should include checking for tire, tire pressure, battery, car fluids, and lights.


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