Safety experts can trace a motor vehicle collision back to countless contributing factors. From inexperienced drivers and challenging weather conditions to distracted drivers and chemical impairment, crashes involving cars, trucks and motorcycles often result in catastrophic injuries and serious property damage. Unfortunately, a faulty auto part or defective vehicle system can lead to severe consequences.
While every situation is unique, there are certain common defects that could result in a serious collision, including:
- Tire blowout: Whether from a manufacturer’s defect, road debris or incorrect inflation, tire blowout can spell disaster.
- Brake failure: A brake failure not only prevents a driver from stopping in traffic, but it can also impact the way the vehicle slows, corners and approaches an intersection.
- Seatbelt failure: From locking up for no reason to failing to secure a vehicle occupant in a collision, a failed seatbelt can cause serious injuries.
- Advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) malfunction: Whether it is collision detection, blind spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist or another computer system, a malfunction can lead to a collision.
- Airbag deployment failure: Whether the airbags deploy at the wrong time or at the wrong inflation speed, vehicle occupants can suffer serious injuries.
- Faulty components in steering control systems: Loss of steering control means the driver can no longer truly control the vehicle to avoid collisions or road hazards.
- Electrical fires or chemical leakage: Many of the vehicle’s systems rely on electricity, combustion or potentially toxic chemicals. Exposure to these substances can put a driver in danger.
A malfunction in many vehicle systems can quickly lead to a loss of control. From the loss of power steering to the blowout of a front tire, drivers are at the mercy of numerous systems designed to keep vehicle occupants and others on the road safe. Unfortunately, a high-speed collision can result in serious injuries such as brain damage, spinal cord trauma, multiple fractures, crush injuries, paralysis and amputation. After a serious vehicle collision, it is wise to discuss the case and the potential for monetary compensation with an experienced personal injury attorney.
