Routine car maintenance is essential for ensuring it stays safe and reliable on the road. However, rising costs force millions to delay car maintenance. This neglect can lead to a surge in breakdowns and accidents, which not only puts drivers in danger but can also result in much more expensive repairs down the line. According to CARFAX, one in nine American drivers is behind on routine vehicle maintenance. Nearly 20% of cars are overdue for an oil change, and about 30% require a tire rotation. Over 30 million vehicles are behind on both services, which poses risks for other road users.

In this article, Kalfus & Nachman, a top-rated personal injury law firm in Virginia, helps you understand the potential reasons for this increase in neglected maintenance and its consequences.

Why Are Drivers Delaying Car Maintenance?

Economic hardships, supply chain issues, and labor shortages have made vehicle repairs more expensive than ever. Some of the main reasons why rising costs force millions to delay car maintenance include:

• Inflation and financial struggles: Many households prioritize essential expenses over vehicle maintenance.
• Higher repair costs: The price of auto parts and labor has surged, making even minor repairs costly.
• Longer wait times for service: Due to parts shortages and a lack of skilled mechanics, getting an appointment for repairs can take weeks.

Delaying maintenance may appear to be a quick fix, but it can result in more significant problems, increasing both safety risks and overall expenses.

The Dangers of Skipping Regular Car Maintenance

Delaying car maintenance can have severe consequences, from unexpected breakdowns to dangerous accidents. Some of the most common risks include:

• Tire blowouts and worn brakes: Not replacing tires or getting brakes serviced timely can result in loss of vehicle control.
• Engine failure: Ignoring oil changes and other fluid replacements can result in engine damage, leading to expensive repairs.
• Compromised safety features: Faulty headlights, turn signals, or windshield wipers reduce visibility and increase accident risks.

Many accidents are caused by vehicle malfunctions that could have been prevented with proper maintenance. Ensuring that your car is in good condition is not just about avoiding breakdowns—it's about keeping yourself and others on the road safe. In Virginia, if a car accident occurs due to a vehicle owner neglecting proper maintenance, meaning they failed to address known issues that could have caused the accident, they can be considered negligent and held liable for the damages caused.

Protecting Yourself After an Accident Caused by Vehicle Neglect

As rising costs force millions to delay car maintenance, the risks of accidents and breakdowns continue to grow. While skipping routine vehicle upkeep might seem like a way to save money, it can lead to dangerous consequences. Faulty brakes, tire failures, and engine malfunctions caused by ignored repairs can make the negligent driver legally responsible.

If you are involved in a crash due to the other driver's neglected vehicle maintenance, contact Kalfus & Nachman's experienced car accident attorneys in Virginia for legal guidance and support. Schedule a consultation at 855-880-8163