Brake Failure Can Lead to Serious Auto Accidents and Major Injuries
When we are behind the wheel or simply passengers in a vehicle, there is an expectation that the vehicle is safe and that it will get us where we are going. Unfortunately, there are many instances in which the vehicle itself or various parts of the vehicle may be defective in some way. If this should happen, our personal injury attorneys will help clients receive compensation from negligent automotive companies or parts manufacturers. You and your loved ones should not have to suffer as a result of their irresponsible actions.
Right now, we'd like to take a moment to consider the nature of brake failure and what that means for motorists. We'll then discuss how Younker Hyde Macfarlane, PLLC can help accident victims and their families during the litigation process.
What does brake failure mean exactly?
Brake failure refers to flaws in a vehicle's brakes that lead to longer or inefficient stopping times. In the worst case scenarios, the brakes on a vehicle may fail completely, meaning that it is impossible for the vehicle to stop through normal use of the foot brake. In such cases, drivers may panic and use the emergency brake instead, either to limited effect or causing them to lose control of the vehicle. Truck drivers have been known to intentionally jackknife their own vehicle as a means of stopping the truck in the case of total brake failure.
Common Causes of Brake Failure
Some of the most common causes of brake failure include:
- Worn or damaged brake pads
- Faulty brake pads/braking systems
- Loss of friction due to excessive heat/overheating
- Oil, grease, or other slippery materials on the brakes
- Linkage failure between the foot pedal and brake
Signs of Potential Brake Failure
Sometimes there are signs of impending brake failure or brake problems that you can notice gradually. These include:
- ABS warning light on the dashboard
- Noticeable increased in stopping times/distance
- Squeaking, grinding, or squealing of the brakes
- Shakiness of the wheels while braking
- Softness or sponginess in the pedal while braking
- Noticeable drift/pull of the vehicle to one side when braking
What You Can Do to Prevent Brake Failure and Other Problems
If you notice any of the above issues with your brakes, be sure to go in and get your vehicle serviced. This will allow the issue to be taken care of as soon as possible and will also ensure that you can avoid serious problems while you are on the road.
Sometimes brake failure is not preventable, however, and may be caused by negligence on the part of the car company or the maker of the brake pads or braking system. In such cases, you need to turn to our legal team.
How Our Legal Team Can Help You
Going it alone against major business concerns such as auto manufacturers can be very difficult, which is why having legal experts on your side is crucial for success. Our auto accident attorneys will not be intimidated by the legal teams of auto companies. We will take the negligent company to task, and seek just compensation for vehicle damage as well as any injuries that have been sustained.
Since brake failure can lead to very serious or even fatal accidents, it will be of our utmost concern that you achieve peace of mind through the legal process and that any future incidents such as those you endured can be avoided. We will fight for you and consumers everywhere.
Learn More About Your Legal Options Following an Auto Accident
If you would like more information about lawsuits that involve defective vehicles and dangerous vehicle components, be sure to contact our Salt Lake City, Utah personal injury attorneys today. Younker Hyde Macfarlane, PLLC serves clients throughout the state and will help you and your loved ones recover just compensation for any injuries sustained or losses that have been experienced.
