Brakes are obviously integral to the safety of drivers and passengers. If a car possesses defective brakes or a defective brake pedal, it may be difficult or impossible to slow or stop the car when desired, which could lead to devastating collisions or even single-vehicle accidents. Those injured should contact an attorney right away.
The Scope of Brake Defects
Brakes may be defective in a variety of ways. In some cases, either due to mechanical or electrical problems that arise while driving, brakes could suddenly require a greater application of force to be effective, as is the case with a host of Chevrolet Malibu vehicles recalled by General Motors in May 2014. The hydraulic boost assist function in these cars can become disabled, leading to braking problems.
In other circumstances, brakes could become active against the intentions of the driver, rapidly decelerating the car and possibly leading to rear-end collisions. Toyota recalled a multitude of Lexus GS sedans from 2013 because of a defect that might cause the braking system to activate while the car is in operation. This might lead to unintended deceleration, and might increase risk of an accident.
Of course, some manufacturers may actually install the brakes incorrectly on the car, as is believed to be the case in a many Buick LaCrosse and Chevrolet Malibu sedans. General Motors reportedly may have mistakenly placed rear brakes in the front of some of these models, which could wear out faster than expected or come loose, which could cause a serious accident.
Be mindful that this is a short list of car brake problems. Other brake defects or defective car brake pedals might also cause serious accidents.
Contact a Defective Products Attorney for Help Recovering Compensation for Injuries
Fortunately for those injured due to defective brakes or defective brake pedals, the law provides the option to file a claim to recover compensation. Product manufacturers are required to create a product that is safe for use in its intended way, and one that does not possess any inherent dangers.
In the case of the aforementioned vehicles, the manufacturers created defective systems that could lead to accidents, and chose to recall the vehicles in hopes of preventing this from happening. If defective brakes do lead to an accident though, the car manufacturers and other third parties can be liable for any injuries sustained as a result of the defects.
There is still the possibility that defective brakes have escaped recall and remain on the road today. If you have been injured, call the attorneys at Gacovino, Lake & Associates, P.C. in New York as soon as possible. We can take a look at your case, and help you understand what types of compensation you may be eligible to recover. Feel free to call us today at 800-550-0000 or fill out our contact form to set up an initial consultation.
