When a car accident is caused by mechanical failure, it has significant implications for a personal injury case. The owner of a vehicle involved in an accident may be liable for your injuries if they fail to ensure adequate vehicle maintenance. This liability includes trucking and delivery companies. In cases of mechanical failure, manufacturers of defective vehicles can also be held liable for car accident injuries.
If you have been injured in a car accident that was caused by a mechanical failure in New York City, call us at (212) 986-7353 to schedule a FREE consultation today.
What Causes Automobile Mechanical Failures?
Mechanical failure refers to the breakdown or malfunction of a vehicle’s components that impairs its normal operation. Unlike accidents caused by human error, mechanical failures are caused by poor vehicle maintenance or manufacturing defects.
Several common types of mechanical failures can lead to car accidents:
- Brake failure. When brakes malfunction, the driver loses the ability to slow down or stop the vehicle effectively, which can result in rear-end collisions, intersection accidents, or even pedestrian injuries. The causes of brake failure can vary, including worn brake pads, leaking brake fluid, or issues with the brake lines and rotors. In emergency situations, the inability to brake can have catastrophic consequences, particularly in high-traffic areas like New York City.
- Suspension issues can affect the vehicle’s stability, especially during high-speed maneuvers or on uneven road surfaces.
- Tire blowouts occur when a tire suddenly loses air pressure, often causing the driver to lose control of the vehicle. This can be particularly dangerous at high speeds, leading to rollover accidents or collisions with other vehicles. Common causes of tire blowouts include over-inflation, under-inflation, worn tread, and striking debris on the road.
- Steering system malfunctions are particularly hazardous as they directly affect the driver’s ability to control the vehicle. These issues can make it difficult to handle the steering wheel, resulting in a noticeable pull to one side, or complete loss of steering capability. Causes of steering system malfunctions can include power steering fluid leaks, worn steering gears, or malfunctioning power steering pumps.
- Engine problems, such as overheating or stalling, can leave a vehicle stranded in hazardous conditions. This frequently results in serious accidents such as multiple-car pileups.
Who Is Liable for Mechanical Failure Accidents in NYC?
Comparative liability laws in New York allow you to seek compensation from more than one negligent party if you were injured in a vehicle accident. Your car accident attorney will investigate the accident and file a claim or lawsuit against anyone whose negligence contributed to your injuries. Victims of accidents caused by defective vehicles can file claims seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
Drivers and vehicle owners have a crucial responsibility to maintain their vehicles in safe operating condition. This duty of care involves regular inspections, timely repairs, and adherence to manufacturer-recommended maintenance schedules. Neglecting these responsibilities can lead to mechanical failures that cause accidents. Drivers and owners must address warning signs and address them promptly.
Trucking and delivery companies have a legal obligation to ensure their fleets are well-maintained and safe for operation. When a mechanical failure in a truck or delivery vehicle leads to an accident, these companies can be held liable if it is shown that they neglected this duty. This liability can arise from failing to perform regular maintenance, ignoring known mechanical issues, or not adhering to safety regulations.
Manufacturers of faulty automobile components may be liable if a defect led to the accident. Under product liability laws, manufacturers have a duty to ensure their vehicles are safe for drivers.
Steps to Take After a NYC Car Accident
Immediately after an accident, check for injuries and call emergency services by dialing 911. Collect contact information from witnesses and other parties involved in the accident. If you feel up to it, document the scene by taking photographs of the vehicles, any visible damage, license plates, and relevant road conditions. See your doctor right away. Even if your injuries don’t to be severe, your symptom may grow worse over time. Receiving prompt medical treatment will also strengthen your personal injury case.
Consulting a New York City car accident attorney is an important step following an accident, especially when mechanical failure is involved. Your lawyer will assess the evidence, including mechanical inspection reports and witness statements, to build a strong case for compensation. Personal injury lawyers understand the nuances of product liability and negligence laws, which can be critical when holding manufacturers or other parties liable.
Your attorney will guide you through the legal process, ensuring that all paperwork is filed correctly, and deadlines are met. They will negotiate to help you get a fair settlement, and if the other side refuses to make a reasonable offer, your lawyer may take them to court.
Mechanical Failure Accident Attorneys in NYC With a Winning Track Record
If you’re looking for a personal injury lawyer in New York, you won’t find anyone better than Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP. For over 50 years, we’ve been getting justice for car accident victims in New York City, and we’ve won over $1 billion for our clients.
WRSMH attorneys hold an AV Rating from Martindale-Hubbell. We’ve also been recognized by Super Lawyers for providing outstanding service to our clients based on peer recognition and independent research.
Call us at (212) 986-7353 to schedule a FREE consultation today.
