Choosing the Right Rims for Your Vehicle

Tires are one of the most important parts of a vehicle, and greatly contribute to the overall safety of the car while driving. If a tire has a defect, isn’t the proper size, isn’t fitted correctly, or doesn’t receive proper maintenance, it can result in disastrous consequences – such as a tire blowout – that can lead to dangerous accidents.

In fact, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that tire failure causes approximately 11,000 crashes in the U.S. each year. Equally as important as tires are tire rims.

While tires and rims may not be at the forefront of your mind when it comes to fun shopping purchases, choosing the right parts for your vehicle is essential to your safety. For tips on how to choose the right rims for your vehicle, refer to the following.

What are tire rims? 

Tires, wheels, and tire rims are often confused, but they are very different. The wheel is responsible for rotating the tire and the rims. The rims are located on the outer edge of the wheel where the tire attaches. Rims are colloquially referred to as wheels, although the comparison is technically incorrect.

Rims and Vehicle Size 

One of the most important things to consider when choosing rims is the size of your vehicle. When you purchase a car, the rims that come with those tires are stock factory wheels. If you’re considering replacing your old rims with new ones, you should never opt for rims that are more than a couple of inches larger than the factory size that came with your car.

Regardless of which rim size you choose, it’s important to ensure that the wheels have maximum-load rating consistent with the size and weight of your vehicle. If you install the wrong size rims and tires, you may experience handling issues. Always make sure to consult a professional technician when purchasing and installing rims.

Vehicle Use and Choosing Rims 

Another thing to consider in addition to vehicle size is how your vehicle is used. If the vehicle is used for off-road activities or winter sports, smaller rims that accompany larger tires are usually preferable, as this can make the vehicle easier to control in tough driving conditions.

When thinking about what you use your vehicle for, another thing you’ll want to consider in addition to rim size is rim material. Alloy rims, for example, can be great for a person who does a lot of commuting as they may help prevent overheating. Alloy rims are also lighter than many factory rims, allowing you to reduce the weight of your vehicle.

Get Help from Chalik & Chalik if in a Tire-related Accident 

While taking precautions when it comes to properly selecting and maintaining rims and tires can reduce your risk of an accident, car wrecks still happen. If you’ve been in an accident caused by another’s negligence, Florida law provides you two years from the date of accident to pursue a personal injury case.

If you’ve been injured, the attorneys at Chalik & Chalik Law Offices are ready to help. To get started on filing your claim today, call us at 855-529-0269.