One important aspect of driver safety is keeping your vehicle properly maintained.

Though there are hundreds of things that can go wrong with a car, some of them are more common than others. The aspects of vehicle maintenance that counteract those problems are especially crucial for two reasons. First, they carry out a critical function in vehicle safety. Second, they do so very frequently because they are used in essential activities like braking and turning. For these reasons, you should prioritize the following 7 aspects of vehicle maintenance. If you do not, you could be headed for a crash.

Brakes

Your first line of defense against an accident is paying attention. If you keep your eyes on the road, you will be able to execute the maneuver you need to make to avoid crashing. Often, that maneuver is hitting the brakes. Once you do, your brake pads take over. If they are worn too thin, your stopping distance will increase, and you could end up in a crash.

Tire Wear

Another significant factor in stopping quickly is having tire tread. When you try to stop, the force that slows you down is the friction between your wheels and the road. If your tires are too old, this friction will be insufficient, and you will not be able to stop in time. Additionally, tires play a critical role in turning, which is also compromised by inadequate tread.

Tire Pressure

Though tire pressure is less of an issue than wear, it still deserves your attention. When tires are inflated too much or too little, they do not function properly. This is especially apparent while turning. Sometimes accident avoidance comes down to just a few inches, so a small change in vehicle behavior can be crucial.

Oil Changes

Drivers frequently neglect oil changes, but doing so can cost them their money and health. The reason is that an engine with old or insufficient oil does not run correctly. Not only does this mean expensive repairs, but if your car malfunction at the wrong time, it could lead to a severe accident.

Headlights and Brakelights

One reason to keep your headlights and brake lights in order is avoiding those pesky traffic tickets. The danger of poor light maintenance goes beyond the financial aspect, though, as these lights play a critical role in traffic safety.

Wiper Blades

When the weather gets rainy in St. Louis, your visibility drops significantly. To counteract this effect, you can turn on your wiper blades. Unfortunately, many people’s blades are not in optimal condition and will do a poor job of helping them see.

Battery

A malfunctioning battery will likely not get you into an accident, but it can be a source of significant frustration. If your battery is in poor condition, your car might not start, and you could be left stranded.

When you drive the streets of St. Louis, you should keep yourself and those around you safe. One aspect of doing so is keeping your vehicle properly maintained. This will increase your odds of staying safe and avoiding a car accident.