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What Should I Take Photos of After Someone Hits Me? Are You at Fault for Hydroplaning? Do Headphones Put Pedestrians in Danger? If They are In Accident, But Have Headphones On, Who is Liable? Common Injuries of Pedestrians Who Are Hit by Cars Is Avoiding Car Maintenance a Sign of Negligence?Is Avoiding Car Maintenance a Sign of Negligence?
All drivers have a legal responsibility to exercise reasonable care on the road. Besides following traffic regulations and paying full attention to traffic, regular maintenance is important to keep other road users safe. Although car maintenance can be costly, it is critical to keep motorists and pedestrians safe. Failure to keep up with regular car maintenance can make someone liable in a crash.
If you were injured in a crash, the Anderson, SC, car accident attorneys at Bradley & Perkins may be able to help. We will investigate to determine your extent of liability and fight for maximum compensation on your behalf.
What is Considered Routine Vehicle Maintenance?
As a vehicle owner, you should periodically inspect your vehicle to ensure that it is in top-notch driving condition. The following components should be examined by a licensed mechanic at least once or twice per year:
Tires
Proper tire inflation will ensure that you are getting the highest fuel efficiency and tire lifespan. A tire that is underinflated may result in reduced traction and is more likely to wear out quickly. Besides checking tire pressure levels, you will want to check your treads at least twice each year. Worn-out tires will result in reduced traction on slippery surfaces, which is more likely to result in a crash.
Brakes
Worn brakes can result in a crash. Be sure to have your mechanic check the rotors and brake pads on a regular basis. Although nobody wants to pay to have their brakes replaced, this expense is nothing compared to the costs related to a collision.
Headlights and Taillights
A headlight can go out without you noticing, creating a hazard if you are traveling at night. A simple fix: it is important that you check exterior lights to ensure that you are visible to other motorists.
Windshield Wipers
Periodically clean your wipers with a damp cloth to remove debris and extend their life. Additionally, avoid using your wipers on a dry windshield since the friction can damage both the wipers and windshield glass. Routinely inspect your wipers for any damage. If you do see any cracks or tears, replace your wipers immediately.
Horn
A working horn is critical to warning drivers and pedestrians of imminent danger. Most of us do not use our horn regularly, so we may be unaware if it stops working. Be sure to check your horn once per month to ensure that it is working properly if an emergency arises.
Negligence Comes in Many Forms
Negligence is defined as a careless act that fails to meet the standard of care that would be employed by an ordinary person under the same circumstances. While most of us think of distracted driving, drunk driving, or fatigued driving as prime examples of negligent driving, failure to maintain your vehicle in optimal condition also applies. If your vehicle’s tires lack adequate treads, causing you to rear-end another driver, then you will most likely be responsible for the other driver’s accident-related expenses.
Even if you are found partially at fault, under South Carolina law, you are still eligible to recoup your losses as long as you are less than 50% responsible for the crash. Medical bills can add up rather quickly, forcing you to put other ambitions on hold. At Bradley & Perkins, we care about your well-being and will do whatever is necessary to help ease your financial burden. The insurance company will most likely attempt to pin more liability on you, but we are prepared to present the necessary evidence to help you secure the compensation you deserve.
Injured? Speak with Our Anderson, SC, Car Accident Lawyers Today
The degree of each driver’s liability in a crash must be determined before insurance can pay out on your claim. If you have been injured due to another driver’s carelessness, do not hesitate to contact our Anderson, SC, car accident attorneys. To learn how the legal team at Bradley & Perkins can assist you, contact us online or by phone today.