It is quite shocking to learn that the average American is more likely to be involved in a car fire than an apartment fire! The statistics related to automobile and other types of vehicle fires is alarming to say the least.
An average of 33 vehicle fires is reported each hour - or one every 96 seconds - with over 500 deaths. Across the country 20% of all fires are vehicle related. In addition, nearly 20% of these fires take place on the highway.
In real terms, a quarter of a million vehicle fires were reported in a recent year! Other facts of interest include the fact that 75% of highway vehicle fires can be traced to mechanical failures or systems malfunctions of some sort. In some cases the vehicles have a design defect or a manufacturing and the manufacturer may be responsible for the fire.
Finally, of all the subpopulations across the country - teenage boys are more likely than any other demographic to experience a vehicle fire and about three quarters of all fires are related to poor vehicle maintenance.
Most drivers do not take the time to realize that there are no less than six flammable liquids underneath the hood of a car, and when the engine heats up any leaks are a potential fire hazard.
Routine maintenance -such as checking that all hoses, caps and filters are in good working order - is the first defense in vehicle fires. Also, having all liquid levels - oil, water, transmission fluid, etc. - checked regularly is also.
If you are driving a vehicle that begins to smoke or flames become visible pull off the road as quickly as possible. All passengers should exit the vehicle and move to at least 100 feet away because of the potential for an explosion.
Most important of all - DO NOT try to put the fire out by yourself but call 911 and wait for emergency responders to step in and help.
Greg Baumgartner is a personal injury lawyer in Houston who handles car fire litigation, and Houston wrongful death lawsuits.
