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When vehicles are started, all the dashboard warning lights should come on.  This is a bulb check.  However, if any of the warning lights remain on, this could be a signal that something is not working correctly.  These warning lights and signals need to be checked.

What do warning lights mean?

Brake Warning Light (usually circular with the word BRAKE or an exclamation point) - This light comes on when either there is a loss of brake fluid pressure or the parking brake is on.  Check the parking brake first.  If it is off, there could be a loss of system pressure in the brakes.  This may be felt when the brake pedal depresses farther than usual.  Brake warning lights should never be ignored.  It is important that a repair facility inspect the system thoroughly to avoid potential trouble when driving.

Airbag Light (usually a seated person symbol) - When there is a problem detected with the airbag system, the airbag light should come on.  This is a sign that the airbag(s) may not deploy in a vehicle accident because one or more of the airbags have been deactivated.  This should be checked as soon as possible.

Tire Pressure Light (usually a symbol with an exclamation point and a cross section of a tire) - This light indicates that one or more of the tires are significantly underinflated.  This could be caused by a puncture or a gradual leakage of pressure over time.  As severe under inflation or punctured tire(s) can affect the handling of the vehicle, tires should be checked immediately.

What other warnings can be heard or felt?

There are also sounds which could indicate brake problems.  These sounds may be high-pitched scraping or squealing sounds.  If so, this would be an indication of the possibility that the brake pads are almost worn out.  This is an indicator which is a metal tab that contacts the brake disc.  The sound may begin faintly and gradually increase as the brake pads become more worn.  This sound indicates brakes need immediate attention.

Stuttering windshield wipers and streaky windows are an indication of the need for new wipers.  Wipers should be replaced at least once a year.

Steering wheel shakes only occurring when brakes are applied are the likely sign that the front disc brakes need attention, either fixed or replaced.

Fort Myers Accident Attorney, Randall Spivey of Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A. encourages vehicle owners to pay attention to what their vehicles are telling them through manufacturer-installed lights and sensors to the "feel" of their vehicles.  These are early warning signs that something could be wrong and should not be ignored.  For more information, check the owner's manual.

Fort Myers Vehicle Accident Attorney,  Randall L. Spivey is a Board Certified Trial Attorney – the highest recognition for competence bestowed by the Florida Bar and a distinction earned by just one (1%) percent of Florida attorneys.  He has handled over 2,000 personal injury and wrongful death cases throughout Florida.  For a free and confidential consultation to discuss your legal rights, contact the Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A., in Lee County at 239.337.7483 or toll free at 1.888.477.4839,or by email to Randall@SpiveyLaw.com.  Visit SpiveyLaw.com for more information.  You can contact Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A.in Charlotte County at 941.764.7748 and in Collier County 239.793.7748.