A new governmental study states that nearly 5% of auto accidents could be linked to under-inflated tires. The report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration was based on data collected from car accidents over a three-year period.
The new study reinforces how important it is to keep tires at the optimal level of inflation. Not only will it help to keep drivers safer, but it increase fuel economy as well. Tire safety has been a focus of the auto industry and auto regulators since the Ford/Firestone rollover episode of the early aughts. The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker was heavily involved in the Ford/Firestone rollover litigation. Many of these rollover accidents were also linked to under-inflated tires.
Newer vehicles come equipped with tire-pressure monitoring systems, which signal an alert to the driver that one or more of their tires is improperly inflated, but studies have suggested that many drivers ignore those warnings. More advanced monitoring systems that show the inflation level are now becoming available. Heed those warnings! It could help prevent an accident from happening.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, contact The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker today at (800) 333-0000 for a free consultation.
