You may be on a tight budget, but vehicle maintenance is one cost that nobody can afford to cut. Worn brake pads, old wiper blades, electrical problems, and other issues can cause accidents. If you are the at-fault driver, then you may be liable for injuries and property damage from the crash.
Even responsible drivers sometimes neglect vehicles that they barely use. If you plan to store your vehicle for a prolonged period of time, there are steps you can take to prevent mechanical problems the next time you climb behind the wheel.
Unfortunately, far too many motorists ignore basic maintenance – and other road users suffer the consequences. If you were injured by a negligent driver in Louisiana, contact Morris Bart, LLC.
A Lake Charles auto accident attorney can evaluate your crash, talk to witnesses, and determine if you have grounds for a claim. You may be entitled to compensation for lost wages, health-care expenses, and other damages.
Call 800-537-8185 to schedule a free initial consultation. Until then, read on to learn how to maintain a vehicle that you do not use often:
Prepare Your Vehicle for Storage
According to Cars.com, you should clean your vehicle thoroughly before putting it in storage. Be sure to wash the underside so salt and other debris on the bottom does not cause rust.
If you are leaving your vehicle unattended for more than 30 days, add a fuel stabilizer to your tank. This will prevent the engine and fuel lines from corroding.
Inflate your tires close to the top of your recommended pressure range, but do not exceed the maximum. Your tires may deflate or inflate slightly due to drops or rises in temperature.
Finally, top your vehicle’s fluids. Consider changing your oil before you put the car in storage.
For a free legal consultation, call 800-537-8185
In Storage
Purchase a strong cover for your vehicle, and block the air intakes and exhaust with steel wool to prevent animals from nesting. Remove or disconnect the car battery, and if possible, connect it to a trickle charger to keep it in good condition.
First Drive
Before your first drive, you have to undo the preparations you made before putting the vehicle in storage. Take off the cover, reconnect the battery, and remove the steel wool.
Inflate your tires to their normal pressure, and check all fluids at a mechanic prior to taking a long journey. If the vehicle has been sitting for longer than 60 days, ask a mechanic to inspect the brakes, power steering, and safety features. Do this at least two weeks before departing on a road trip.
If you were injured by a negligent motorist, contact a Lake Charles personal-injury lawyer from Morris Bart, LLC. A Louisiana accident attorney can guide you through the claims process and help you avoid mistakes such as accepting a low settlement offer. Call 800-537-8185 to schedule a free initial consultation.
Questions?Call 800-537-8185
to find a Morris Bart office near you.
