Finding the perfect car seems like an impossible task. It can be overwhelming to consider what brand, size, color you want your new car to be. After choosing what you feel is the “perfect match” most people decide to buy, but there is an important step that could save you and your car from personal and physical injury. Auto design defects account for about 2% of all car crash injuries and fatalities, according to the National Motor Vehicle Crash Causation Survey published by the U.S. Department of Transportation. Knowing the current recalls and regularly checking in on the “health” of your car is the best way to avoid accidents caused by defect.
Tire Failure
Tires or wheels that fail during driving account for 43.3 percent of all defect accidents. The best way to prevent a tire or wheel accident is to check tire pressure and condition frequently - when you get gas and especially before a long road trip. A lot of the time, wrecks caused by tires have to do with a blowout or flat from running over an object or hitting a curb. But, tires go through a rigorous manufacturing process and if not inspected thoroughly, defective tires can cause an unexpected accident. If a tire is manufactured incorrectly, it most likely has to do with improper tread which leads to cracking and separation that causes air leaks or bulges. Regularly checking your tires will assist in spotting problem areas.
Brake Failure
Another major manufacturing defect has to do with the brake system. Failed breaks account for 25 percent of all auto accidents due to defect. There are ways to detect possible brake failure before it happens on the road. If the brakes seem to “stick” or feel “spongy,” they should be taken in immediately to be looked at. If not, the brake pedal may give out and go straight to the floor when pressed down. When driving down steep hills, or in extremely hot conditions, use the brakes sparingly to avoid overheating them. In some instances, overheating has to do with the brakes themselves not the users. A sufficient amount of “cooling” should be available as well as brake fluid with extremely high boiling points as to not overwhelm the vehicle and lose friction.
Manufacturing and design defects are important to be aware of as a vehicle owner and should be checked before purchase as well as during ownership. Look for any recalls online with the manufacturer or call them to save yourself from an accident caused by defect. . If you or someone you know has suffered an injury due to an auto design defect, contact Colley & Colley law firm in the Tyler, Texas area for a free consultation.
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