Brake failure can lead to catastrophic consequences, posing a significant threat to drivers and passengers. The causes of brake failure vary, so determining liability can get complicated.
Common causes of brake failure include:
- Mechanical Malfunctions: Faulty brake components like worn brake pads, damaged brake lines, or malfunctioning brake calipers can compromise the braking system’s effectiveness.
- Improper Maintenance: Neglecting routine maintenance, such as failing to replace worn brake pads or ignoring brake fluid leaks, can lead to brake failure over time.
- Manufacturing Defects: In some cases, brake failure results from defects in the manufacturing process. Examples include substandard materials or design flaws in brake components.
- Overheating: Excessive heat generated during prolonged braking can cause brake fluid to boil, leading to brake fade or complete failure. This might happen when a vehicle slowly descends a long, steep ramp.
Identifying the specific cause of brake failure in a car accident requires a thorough investigation by experienced professionals, including accident reconstruction experts and mechanical engineers.
What Are the Potential Consequences of Brake Failure?
Brake failure can have severe and widespread consequences. When drivers lose the ability to slow down or stop their vehicles, they become vulnerable to crashes. These include rear-end collisions, intersection accidents, run-off-road accidents, and multi-vehicle pileups.
Higher speeds increase the chances of accidents when brakes fail. Increased velocity means less time to react and longer stopping distances, magnifying the impact force upon collision. This amplifies the risk of catastrophic injuries and extensive property damage.
Accidents Accidents can result in serious injuries like whiplash, fractures, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal cord injuries. The financial repercussions can be significant, including property damage, medical expenses, vehicle repairs, and lost wages.
How Can Liability Be Determined in Brake Failure Accidents?
Potential parties responsible for brake failure accidents include vehicle manufacturers, mechanics or repair shops, and drivers. If a manufacturing defect caused the problem, the manufacturer may be liable for damages resulting from the accident.
Negligent maintenance or improper repairs by mechanics or repair shops could also contribute to brake failure and subsequent accidents. In cases where drivers fail to address known brake issues or drive recklessly, they may be held accountable for resulting accidents.
Establishing liability in these cases typically involves gathering evidence like maintenance records, vehicle inspection reports, and eyewitness testimony.
What Legal Options Are Available for Those Affected by Brake Failure Accidents?
Individuals impacted by brake failure accidents may pursue legal options to seek compensation for their losses. Depending on the circumstances of the incident, options for compensation may include:
- Insurance Claims: A first option is to seek compensation through insurance claims filed with your insurance provider or the insurer of the allegedly at-fault party.
- Personal Injury Claims: You might initiate a personal injury claim to recover damages for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.
Seek Justice Today: Contact a Monmouth County Car Accident Lawyer at Mikita & Roccanova
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident due to brake failure, contact a Monmouth County car accident lawyer at Mikita & Roccanova. Call us at 732-705-3363 or contact us online for a free consultation. Located in Hazlet and Highland Park, New Jersey, we serve clients in Ocean County, Sussex County, Neptune, Middlesex County, and Pennsylvania.