Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be a complex and overwhelming experience, especially when the cause of the accident is not immediately clear. While various factors may contribute to these collisions, mechanical failures are a prevalent yet often overlooked cause. These failures can occur suddenly and without warning, turning a routine drive into a harrowing experience.
Understanding the types of mechanical issues that can lead to an accident is not only crucial for your own road safety, but also may help you identify the entity responsible for a crash. Below are some of the most common mechanical failures that can lead to a collision. If you do get into a wreck, an Atlanta car accident lawyer may be able to assist you.
#1: Brake Issues
Brakes are fundamental to vehicle safety, and their failure can be catastrophic. Brake issues can range from worn-out brake pads and leaking brake fluid to malfunctioning anti-lock brake systems. These problems can result in the driver’s inability to stop the vehicle effectively, leading to rear-end collisions or uncontrollable skidding.
#2: Engine Malfunctions
The engine is the heart of any vehicle, and any malfunctions can directly lead to an accident. Common engine problems that can lead to crashes include overheating, stalling, or sudden loss of power. These issues can be particularly dangerous if they occur while the car is moving at high speeds or in heavy traffic, leaving the driver with limited control.
#3: Steering Problems
A functioning steering system is critical for maneuvering and maintaining control of a vehicle. Steering failures, such as a loss of power steering, broken steering components, or alignment issues, can dramatically affect a driver’s ability to control their vehicle. This can cause the driver to lose control of the wheel, veer off the road, crash into obstacles, or be unable to safely navigate traffic.
#4: Tire Defects
Tires are the only point of contact between a vehicle and the road, making their integrity crucial. Defects in tires, such as balding, under-inflation, or sidewall damage, can lead to blowouts or loss of traction. These issues can cause the driver to lose control, especially at high speeds or in poor weather conditions.
#5: Broken Headlights or Taillights
Proper lighting is essential for visibility and communication on the road. Broken headlights or taillights can lead to accidents by reducing a vehicle’s visibility to others and impairing the driver’s ability to see the road. This is particularly dangerous at night or in adverse weather conditions.
How to File a Product Liability Lawsuit in Georgia
When a vehicle component doesn’t function as it should, serious accidents can occur, leading to devastating injuries and a host of damages. If you were injured in a car crash caused by a mechanical failure, you may have the right to pursue a lawsuit or insurance claim against the manufacturer of that product.
Product liability lawsuits in Georgia allow victims harmed by defective products to recover financial compensation for their medical expenses, property damage, and other losses. However, you must prove that the car part was defective in its design, manufacturing, or warnings and instructions to secure a settlement.
In these situations, an Atlanta personal injury attorney can leverage their resources, knowledge, and expertise to identify the cause of the accident and whether you have grounds for a claim. Contact a lawyer as soon as possible following your collision to discuss your legal options and plan your path to recovery.