by Michael Pines

There’s no denying that heat, inclement weather, poor road surfaces, and moisture can all work together to deteriorate the natural materials used to make car parts such as tires, brakes, and glass windshield parts. That’s why vehicle manufacturers stress the importance of car maintenance – including the replacement of such parts – as part of the car ownership responsibility. But sadly, even when a car owner is diligent in replacing worn parts, faulty design or poorly-made products can turn often take a turn for the worst. A tragic car accident in Northern California reminds San Diego drivers that car maintenance in addition to regular vehicle inspections are essential to reducing your risk of car accidents.

A faulty tire, extreme heat, and an overloaded vehicle could have caused a recent car accident that resulted in tragic death for four family members packed within the vehicle. The family, who was returning home to Modesto from Bakersfield, rolled over their SUV on Father’s Day following their road trip home on Highway 99. According to authorities, the tire’s tread separated on the family’s 2001 Ford Excursion causing the vehicle to lose control in a 70 mph zone. The SUV rolled over, killing four of the family members within the vehicle. Two passengers survived but sustained serious injury as a result of the accident.

The two surviving passengers wore seatbelts. Three out of the four passengers who were killed were also wearing seatbelts but tragically died at the scene of the car accident.

Authorities say the hot asphalt may have been a contributing factor to the faulty tire. At the time of the accident, the temperature was said to be at least 108 degrees with asphalt temperatures much hotter.

“It’s why we say `don’t overload your vehicle before a long trip, and always check your tires,’” said Officer Robert Rodriguez of the California Highway Patrol.

“Unfortunately, these things happen a lot, especially during hot summer months.”

Warm weather ahead: ways to stay safe on the road

You can do a lot to prevent a San Diego car accident starting with car maintenance. Now that summer’s around the corner, consider the following tips to reduce your risk of car accident.

Check tires frequently

Make it a point to check your tires regularly, especially in the summer months when hot weather can cause rubber to become brittle. Check tire soundness and wear when you’re pumping gas or washing your car.

Know how to maneuver in dangerous situations

As the CPH notes, “drivers should try to keep a steady course when a tire blows,” Officer Rodriguez said. According to the CHP, the driver of the SUV braked as the tire failed, which would have caused the car to lose control entirely, resulting in a violent turn. Reduce your speed, and avoid jerky or sudden vehicle maneuvers if an emergency presents itself to help reduce your risk of San Diego accidents.

“Try to ride it out, and then slowly merge over to the right. But never apply the brakes and never turn the steering wheel,” he said.

Car accident lawyer in San Diego

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, the Law Offices of Michael Pines, APC can help you file your insurance claim. Why do people hire an accident attorney in San Diego? Injured persons turn to Michael Pines for legal help because insurance companies often try to settle quickly, ignoring possible factors that can greatly influence your claim. Our lawyers will work hard to get you the maximum compensation you deserve. Call us today for a free legal review of your accident: 1-800-655-6585.

About Michael Pines

Michael Pines is a former insurance company attorney who specializes in car accident injury. While he was an insurance attorney, he learned from behind the scenes on how insurance companies work and how they decided to pay injured people. Now that he works against insurance companies, Michael's inside knowledge has resulted in significant benefits to his clients injured in car accidents.

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