Car Accidents Caused by Brake Failure
Without brakes, a vehicle cannot stop until it crashes into another vehicle or stationary object such as a curb or building. We know that modern brakes are very reliable for the most part, but brake failure is absolutely possible. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) National Motor Vehicle Crash Causation Survey says that two percent of all car accidents are caused by brake failure.
A functioning brake system is probably the most important safety feature on a vehicle. If you or a loved one was injured in a car crash because the other driver experienced brake failure, contact an experienced car accident attorney today. They can help determine fault and the value of your clam. If the cause of an accident can be directly connected to defective brakes, you may be entitled to damage recovery from the car manufacturer, the mechanic who last serviced the vehicle or the owner who failed to maintain their brakes.
Top signs of imminent brake failure
Manufacturers owe a duty of care to their customers to build a car with reliable brakes, mechanics owe a duty of care to their clients to give good advice / provide appropriate repairs, and car owners have a duty of care to maintain the brakes on their vehicle to ensure that they operate properly. These are the top signs that your brakes are on the verge of failing and need to be fixed right away:
- Your vehicle drifts to the left or right when you brake.
This can be caused by impurities in the brake fluid or uneven wear on the brake pads. Either way, your car should be seen by a mechanic.
- The brake pedal feels spongy or lacks normal resistance.
If it’s suddenly too easy to press your brake pedal to the floor then your brakes could have extreme brake pad wear, there could be air trapped in the brake lines or a fluid leak. Take your vehicle into a mechanic for a diagnosis.
- The brakes make a squealing or grinding noise.
If your brakes have started making a squealing or grinding noise when you press down on the pedal, it could be a sign that your brake pads have worn down and the metal is grinding together. Take your car in to a mechanic.
- Your brake light is lit up.
Modern vehicles have warning lights to alert car owners when there is an issue with their car, including the brake system. If the brake light stays on after you initially turn on the vehicle or it turns on and off as you’re driving; it’s time to take your car in.
- Your steering wheel is making unusual vibrations
Rotors are an important part of the brake system that stops your vehicle when you press the brake. A warped brake rotor may be the cause of the unusual vibration or shaking you are feeling. If you experience this sensation, take your car to a mechanic right away.
Seek the help of a car accident attorney
If you or a loved one was injured because of the negligence of another, contact a personal injury lawyer to discuss your legal rights. Let an experienced car accident attorney fight for the full compensation that you deserve. It is not uncommon to receive a settlement from the insurance company that is five to ten times larger with the help of a lawyer. Call the personal injury lawyers at Tario & Associates, P.S. in Bellingham, WA today for a FREE consultation! We have been representing residents of Whatcom County, Skagit County, Island County and Snohomish County since 1979. You will pay nothing up front and no attorney fees at all unless we recover damages for you!
