When you think about why a negligent driver hit you, you may not consider lack of vehicle maintenance as the cause of your crash. However, your accident may not have been caused by driver negligence. It could have been due to the driver failing to fix a broken part or component on his vehicle.
5 Mechanical Problems That Lead to Crashes
While mechanical failures are not the main cause of auto accidents, they are a risk factor. Important maintenance problems that cause crashes include:
Underinflated or worn tires.
Underinflated tires can overheat and fail or blow out. The risk is even greater during hot
weather when the vehicle is driven at highway speeds. In addition, worn tires lose their traction, causing a driver to lose control of his vehicle—especially on wet or icy roads.
Brakes.
he hydraulic and mechanical components, brake pads, and shoes all have a limited service life. If problems with the brakes are not repaired, the driver could cause a rear-end collision, pedestrian accident, or other type of accident when he cannot safely stop.
Steering system.
here are many components in the steering system, like steering linkages, ball joints, tie rods, and steering fluid lines, subject to normal wear and tear. If not maintained, the steering system could fail suddenly, leaving the driver unable to steer his vehicle, with disastrous results.
Wipers and defrosters.
If the wipers and defrosters are not working properly in rainy and snowy conditions, the driver can lose visibility quickly and cause a crash, especially when in congested traffic or driving at high speeds.
Head lights and tail lights.
More accidents happen at night when visibility is poor, and drivers depend on lights to be able to see. If a vehicle has broken or dim head lights, brake lights, or tail lights, it can become impossible for the driver to see other motorists and for them to see him.
Have You Been Involved In A Car Accident?
If you’ve been injured in a car accident you need to speak with an experienced Henderson car accident lawyer as soon as possible. Contact us online or call our Henderson office directly at 702.405.6000 to schedule a free initial consultation.