Florida PSI: Important Information

Tire pressure, generally measured in pounds per square inch (PSI), should be at a specific level in order to prevent any driving problems attributed to under-inflated tires. According to a report on tire pressure monitoring provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), some of the consequences of under-inflated tires include an increased stopping distance for the car and higher chance of tire blowout.

In order to stay safe on the road, it is imperative that you monitor the PSI levels on your tires on a regular basis. The following is a guideline on how you can do this, and why it is so important.

How do you find out the PSI?

Before attempting to add air to your tires, it is important that you first read the information label on your car’s tires, which will tell you the required PSI. If the tires don’t list the required PSI, check the vehicle manual. Different tires may work best inflated to different levels, and this will be included on the label.

Once you know the recommended level for your specific set of tires, you can use a tire gauge to check the current levels of your tires. You can purchase one at most auto shops, or have the process performed by a professional to ensure it’s done properly.

If the PSI level of your tires is lower than required, you can fill them back up with an air station inflator found at many gas stations in Florida.

Additionally, according to SaferCar.gov, a government sponsored website meant to increase driver safety and awareness, tires should be checked at least once a month, even if there is no visible evidence of a puncture. Tires can deflate simply by withstanding large amounts of pressure, and should be monitored on a routine basis.

The Importance of Recommended PSI Levels

Instead of refilling their tires, many drivers instead choose to ride on under-inflated tires for longer than recommended. In fact, a survey conducted in 2001 by the NHTSA showed that 36 percent of the passenger cars participating had at least one tire that was 20 percent below the recommended pressure.

Doing so puts both the driver at risk as well as other motorists on the road. An under-inflated tire loses traction when moving left and right, increasing the risk of an accident on the road. With this, the walls of the tire bend more easily and the temperature inside increases, leading to additional stress and the possibility of failure.

In light of this, the easiest way to avoid an accident on the road related to under-inflated tires is by checking your PSI levels routinely.

Contact a Florida Attorney if You Have Been in a Wreck

Unfortunately, no matter how diligent you may be about maintaining adequate PSI levels, some drivers are in tire-related wrecks because the tires were faulty. If you have been injured in a car accident in Florida because of defective tires, contact the tire lawyers at Chalik & Chalik. We can examine the nature of your case, and help you file a claim for compensation. You can reach us today at 855-529-0269.