Car Accidents Caused by Mechanical and Safety Issues

Vehicle Safety Maintenance

Many states have annual vehicle inspections to ensure that cars are running both efficiently and safely. If a vehicle fails the inspection, the owner has a certain amount of time to make the necessary repairs. If the repairs aren’t made, the vehicle owner is restricted by law from driving the car, and drivers face serious penalties for driving an uninspected vehicle. South Carolina does not require vehicle inspections by law but it is still a good idea for drivers to make sure their cars are regularly checked and maintained. The American Automobile Association (AAA) recommends drivers perform seasonal checkups to maintain performance and safety of their vehicles. We don’t see some of the harsher winter conditions that make winter car care so important for our cold weather friends, but it’s still a good idea to use this car care and maintenance checklist:

• Inspect tires and tire pressure
• Check the engine air filter and cooling levels
• Make sure all headlight, tail lights, brake lights, turn signals, and emergency flashers and working
• Replace old wiper blades and ensure you have plenty of washer fluid
• Have the battery and charging system tested
• Check your brake system and brake fluid levels
• Check drive belts and engine hoses for cracks or leaks

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Handling Driving Emergencies

Despite our best efforts, accidents do happen and emergency situations occasionally crop up. The South Carolina Department of Public Safety offers the following tips for handling driving emergencies:

• Brake failure: Honk your horn to alert other drivers, and downshift or use your emergency brake to slow down
• Flat tire: Coast to a stop. Set your emergency brake before attempting to fix a flat
• Stalled car: Turn on your flashers and exit the car, standing in a safe spot away from traffic
• Stuck accelerator: Turn the engine off, but don’t lock your steering wheel. Pump your brakes hard, as the power braking system will be off. Honk your horn to alert other drivers

The most important thing to do in any emergency is to try and remain calm. Don’t panic, and do your best to slow your vehicle and avoid oncoming traffic.

Contact an Experienced South Carolina Car Accident Attorney

If you or a loved one has been hurt or injured in a car accident, contact Anastopoulo Law Firm today. Our experienced South Carolina car accident attorneys will review your case, and help you get compensation for the damages and injuries you’ve suffered. Don’t delay. We have offices in Charleston and throughout South Carolina, and we are prepared to assist you with your case.