Properly maintaining your car is just as important as driving defensively. Regular car maintenance reduces your risk of a severe car accident, keeping yourself and others safe. Since it can be difficult to determine which car maintenance tips to follow and which ones to ignore, we have debunked the most common car maintenance myths.

Myth 1: Look at Your Vehicle’s Sidewalls to Determine the Correct Tire Inflation Pressure

Many drivers make the mistake of looking at their vehicle’s sidewalls to determine the ideal tire inflation pressure. The truth is that their vehicle’s manufacturer may have another suggestion that is better suited for their car and that improves both fuel consumption and safety. Be sure to check your tire pressure on a monthly basis or whenever extreme temperature fluctuations occur.

Myth 2: Using Premium Fuel is Worth It

The majority of vehicles on the market are engineered to run optimally on regular 87 octane fuel.  It is a good idea to check your vehicle’s owner manual to figure out what type of fuel you should use. The Federal Trade Commision says that, unless the manufacturer indicates that higher octane is necessary for your car, there is no benefit to paying the higher prices. While you can use premium fuel without harm, know that your vehicle will not operate more efficiently. However, if your car engine is "knocking," the higher octane grade may help those problems.

As fall makes its debut, motorcycle riders excitedly anticipate the cooler weather along with the beauty of the season. For many enthusiasts, nothing compares to a long, relaxing ride through the countryside with the crisp, autumn air blowing past.  Although the conditions seem prime, the season poses potential risks for motorcyclists. These safety guidelines offer a friendly reminder for motorcyclists to help keep them and other motorists safe. These best practices are proven to can significantly reduce the risk of motorcycle accidents and injuries.

1. Be Mindful of Leaves

Falling leaves, as well as leaves on the ground, are beautiful. However, they can be dangerous or even deadly, especially when they are wet. Leaves easily cover up potholes and other potential driving hazards. Wet leaves potentially lead to traction issues, which can make it difficult for motorcyclists to maintain complete control of their bikes.

2. Dress in Layers

The practice of wearing multiple layers of clothing articles is vital for fall motorcycle riders. In the heat of summer, lighter clothing allows for a pleasant, cool breeze, yet as the temperatures drop into winter weather, the cold becomes unwelcomed. Motorcyclists should begin with a base layer of thermals, then mid-layers of daily clothing, and top it off with a warm jacket. By layering multiple thin layers rather than one thick one, riders and passengers alike can easily adjust their clothing to their comfort zone while they are out on their bikes.

Slip and fall accidents can happen within a moment's notice to individuals of all ages and health statuses. Many of these incidents lead to severe, long-term injuries. Although they can happen just about anywhere, they frequently occur on sidewalks, parking lots, stairs, elevators, restaurants, and grocery stores.  To ensure preparedness if you become injured, we have created this guide of what to do after a slip and fall accident in Wisconsin.

Seek Medical Attention

After a slip and fall accident, your health should be your top priority. For this reason, it is imperative to visit a doctor right away. Many falls result in internal injuries, most of which are not immediately noticeable to the untrained eye. A doctor can help you document your injuries and recover safely and efficiently.

Report the Slip and Fall

Report any accident regardless of where your slip and fall took place. It is your responsibility to tell the landlord, owner, or manager of the private or public property that the trip and fall occurred. If possible, obtain a written report of the incident.

A document that outlines all parental duties is known as a parenting plan. When a couple with children decides to file for divorce, it is each parent’s responsibility to file a proposed parenting plan asking the court to make decisions about the legal custody and physical placement of their children. In the event that both parents completely agree on these issues, one plan may be filed, but in many cases, each parent will file their own proposed plan. Below is some more information on how parenting plans work in Wisconsin:

Who Decides On a Parenting Plan?

In the ideal situation, both parents are involved in a child’s life. However, if your divorce is the result of abuse, domestic violence, or another dangerous issue, you may prefer to handle all parental duties on your own, and you may ask the court to grant you sole custody of your children. If you do wish to share these duties, you will need to work with your ex-spouse to create a parenting plan that you both agree on.

Even though you and your child’s other parent are highly encouraged to come up with an agreed plan, any proposed parenting plan will need to be approved by the court. If your plan protects your child’s best interests, it will likely be approved by a judge. In the event that you and your child’s other parent do not create a plan or cannot agree on certain issues, the court may make decisions on your behalf.

If you have been injured in a car accident, you are likely feeling stressed and unsure of what to do. After things have calmed down a bit and you have exchanged information with others involved in the accident and made any required police reports, it is important to visit the doctor right away. Doing so will protect your health and increase your chances of obtaining the full and fair compensation you may be entitled to.

When you do visit the doctor after a car accident, there are certain questions you should ask in order to protect your rights and recover in a safe and efficient manner. These questions include:

1. How Severe Are My Injuries?