When we think of car accidents, we often imagine someone engaging in negligent behaviors like speeding, cutting across lanes, or texting while driving. Too often, we overlooked another culprit behind these unfortunate incidents: defective parts.
All drivers must remain aware of the potential dangers lurking within their vehicles. These days, even small electrical issues can lead to seriously dangerous conditions on the road.
Brake System Failures
Brake malfunctions can also drastically alter the dynamics of your vehicle, leading to catastrophic outcomes.
When brakes fail, stopping distances increase significantly. In some cases, the vehicle may not stop at all. This situation is particularly dangerous in high-speed scenarios or congested traffic conditions. In these situations, the ability to stop promptly means the difference between a close call and a devastating collision.
Here are some warning signs that your brakes are failing:
- The brake pedal feels spongy when you press it.
- You hear a high-pitched squeal every time you tap the brakes.
- There is a noticeable decrease in your vehicle's stopping power.
Modern vehicles are equipped with dashboard warning lights that alert drivers of potential brake system issues. Always take these signs seriously. They are your car's way of communicating potential danger.
Tire Defects
A tire blowout is a dramatic event that instantly transforms a routine drive into a fight for control. The sudden loss of air pressure affects the vehicle's stability, making it hard to steer. Blowouts often lead to swerving and even rollovers.
A defective tire is particularly dangerous at freeway speeds. At this velocity, the forces involved are greater, and the driver's reaction time is limited.
Steering System Defects
When you turn the steering wheel, you expect your vehicle to respond accurately. However, steering system malfunctions severely impair this response, leading to a loss of control.
A faulty power steering pump or a broken steering linkage can make it difficult to maneuver the vehicle, especially during emergency situations. Such problems make it harder to turn the wheel. This sudden increase in steering effort can catch drivers off guard. It can limit their ability to react appropriately, avoid obstacles, or maintain lane integrity.
Faulty Suspension
The suspension system is the unsung hero of vehicle stability and handling. It absorbs shocks from the road and helps maintain tire contact, which is crucial for safe maneuvering.
A compromised suspension system can lead to a rough ride, uneven tire wear, and an increased risk of rollover in adverse conditions. Drivers do not always notice the gradual decline in suspension performance until it is too late. Periodic checks are essential for maintaining the vehicle's handling characteristics and overall safety.
Defective Headlights and Signal Lights
Functioning headlights and signal lights play a critical role in making sure you can see and be seen on the road.
Headlights illuminate the path ahead, and they allow other drivers to gauge your position and trajectory. Similarly, signal lights communicate your intentions, helping prevent misunderstandings and accidents. A failure in these systems, often due to electrical issues or burnt-out bulbs, can literally leave you in the dark, increasing your risk of collisions.
Electrical Failures Leading to Accidents
Modern vehicles have complex electrical systems. They are a full network that powers everything from the engine's ignition system to the car's entertainment features.
The system’s primary function is to ensure safe vehicle operation. Electrical problems can lead to a sudden loss of power, affecting critical systems like headlights, wipers, and the anti-lock braking system.
Such failures can be disorienting and dangerous, particularly if they occur while you’re driving.
Engine Defects
A reliable engine is the cornerstone of a vehicle's performance. Defects can lead to unexpected stalling, which is as dangerous as it is frustrating.
Stalling can occur at the most inopportune times, like when you are accelerating onto a highway or crossing an intersection. Situations like this leave a driver in a real predicament. The sudden loss of power can lead to rear-end collisions or leave drivers stranded in high-speed traffic lanes.
Transmission Problems
The transmission is the heart of a vehicle's drivetrain. This system is responsible for smoothly delivering power from the engine to the wheels.
Transmission problems often manifest as jerky shifting, slipping gears, or even complete lock-up, creating dangerous conditions. These issues affect a driver's ability to control the vehicle's speed and lead to unpredictable vehicle behavior.
Filing a Defective Product Claim in an Automobile Accident
First, gather any evidence or documentation related to the accident, such as photographs or witness statements.
Next, consult with an experienced attorney. Their guidance and representation can help make sure your rights are protected.
When filing a defective product claim, include information about the product, including the make and model of the vehicle and any relevant recalls or safety warnings.
With careful preparation and the right legal team on your side, you can pursue the compensation you need to recover from your accident and move forward with your life.
If you’ve been hurt by a defective product, Katz Kantor Stonestreet & Buckner, PLLC is here to help. We can review your case and help you decide what to do next. For a free consultation, call us at (304) 713-2014 or contact us online.