Dec 26 2008
Defects from Modification and Poor Maintenance
Factors in maintenance and modification which can contribute to motor vehicle accidents include:
Poor Maintenance of Brakes - Obviously, brake failure can be a significant factor in causing an accident, as an unexpected brake failure may leave a driver unable to slow or stop in order to maintain control of a vehicle, or to avoid a collision.
Poor Maintenance of Tires - Tire blowouts from old, worn, or improperly patched tires can result in an accident.
Dangerous Modifications - Sometimes drivers will make after-market modifications to their cars, without regard for the laws or vehicle safety regulations. Sometimes the modifications will diminish the safety of their vehicle, will impede their ability to properly observe the roadway, or will increase the danger to others as a result of collision. Excessively bright headlights or foglights, for example, can blind oncoming drivers. Where after-market modifications are performed by a company, that company may also face liability if the modifications contribute to an accident or injury.
Older vehicles may be subject to axle failure, suspension failure, or a steering mechanism failure. When such failures occur on newer vehicles they may suggest a design or manufacturing defect in the vehicle. Routine maintenance and inspection can help prevent a mechanical failure from causing or contributing to accident or injury. Drivers should also heed manufacturer recall notices.