According to data collected by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), about 45,000 car accidents that occur each year are caused by poor maintenance or lack of maintenance. There are certain frequent mechanical issues that drivers should be aware of, and taking care of these issues can help decrease the risk of a car crash. Properly maintained vehicles can also help you avoid an accident, as well.
The following are some of the most common mechanical issues that lead to crashes. If you were injured in a car accident caused by another driver, call our office to meet with one of our skilled Outer Banks car accident lawyers.
Common Mechanical Failures
Tires
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), issues with vehicle tires are the cause of 35 percent of accidents caused by some type of vehicle failure. Worn tire treads and tire blowouts can hinder a driver from keeping control of the vehicle, which is especially dangerous in large tractor-trailers.
Brakes
Another common cause of mechanical failure that results in crashes is brakes. Issues with brakes are responsible for 22 percent of accidents where vehicle failure was cited as the cause of the crash. Brake issues include worn brake pads, faulty or worn brake lines, and anti-lock brake system (ABS) malfunctions.
Brake Lights, Headlights, and Taillights
Issues with the vehicle’s lighting can hamper other vehicles’ visibility and lead to a crash. For example, if a car’s taillights are not working, and it is at night on a poorly lit road, how will another vehicle know there is a vehicle in front of them? The same is true for brake lights, although this issue can cause a crash any time of day or night and in any type of weather. If your brake lights are not working, there is no way for the driver behind you to know you are slowing down or stopping.
Who Is Liable?
When a mechanical failure occurs and causes an accident, there are three potential liable parties for the crash – the vehicle manufacturer, the repair shop that works on the vehicle, or the owner of the vehicle:
- Manufacturer – Millions of vehicles are recalled each year because of defective or dangerous parts or designs. If a manufacturer fails to adhere to the stringent standards, it can be held liable.
- Repair shop – Another potential at-fault party is the mechanic or repair shop where the vehicle is serviced. If the vehicle had recently been in for repairs but the shop made low-quality or faulty repairs that resulted in the crash, the victim may be able to pursue legal action against the shop.
- Vehicle owner—The vehicle owner is responsible for maintaining the vehicle in good working order. If they fail to adhere to a necessary maintenance schedule or ignore recall notices, they could be held liable.
Call an OBX Car Accident Attorney
If you have been in a car accident, contact Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp to speak with one of our Outer Banks car accident attorneys. We will evaluate your case and let you know what type of legal options you may have. Our personal injury firm had successfully represented many injured victims, obtaining the compensation they were entitled to for their injuries, like a $235,000 personal injury insurance settlement for one client who suffered a concussion, soft tissue injuries to her back and neck, and a laceration to her face when another driver negligently failed to yield the right of way when attempting to cross a busy highway.
Call today to schedule a free consultation.