Description:
Safety inspections consist of a series of safety-related checks for
various systems and areas of the vehicle. For example, some common checks
include glass, horn, tires, wipers, lights, turn signals, brakes, mirrors, steering, suspension,
and restraint systems. States may opt for different systems and subsystems at
their discretion. At present, there are 19 states/areas of the country
that require safety inspections.
Most states have
programs that require inspections on an annual
basis, but there are
some areas that only require inspections on a
biennial (two-year) basis.
Purpose: State agencies often adopt safety
inspections as a means of regulating improved safety for motorists. Research shows
that states with annual safety inspection programs have accident
rates that are 20 percent lower than in states
without safety inspections.
Safety
inspections represent a good
opportunity have minor
problems corrected before they become major problems or
hazards.
Maintenance Tips/Suggestions: If you live in an area that requires a
safety inspection, welcome it as an opportunity to have your car
looked over thoroughly. There's more at stake here than just safety;
an inspection can also detect problems that could cause major
breakdown headaches in the near future. Plan your inspection into
your schedule at a time when the inspection facility isn't backed up
with other work. This often happens at the end of the month when
everyone suddenly rushes at the last minute to schedule an
inspection. Planning ahead gives you time to make better choices
about different repairs or services that may be needed as determined
during the inspection.
