Older cars to blame for most defect-related crashes

Are older cars to blame for most defect-related crashes?  Yes.

In today’s fast-paced world, where driver safety is paramount, the role of older cars in defect-related crashes cannot be overlooked. As technology advances, the spotlight turns toward the aging fleet of vehicles on our roads.  You know.  The ones that hold a special place in our heart even though they lack modern safety features. This raises crucial questions about their safety and potential risks. This article delves into the significant implications of older cars in defect-related accidents, shedding light on the complexities that may arise.

Understanding the Role of Older Cars in Defect-Related Crashes

To comprehend the significance of older cars in defect-related crashes, it’s imperative to examine the prevailing statistics. According to Bureau of Transportation Statistics, the average age of passenger cars and light trucks (e.g., SUVs and pickup trucks) in operation in the United States is trending up.  Today, the average age of passenger vehicles is 12.5 years; compared to 2000 when the average age of passenger vehicles was 8.9 years.

The Ohio Highway Patrol analyzed such crashes that occurred in the state over a three-year period and found that 56% involved a model year 1999-2008 vehicle. By contrast, 24% of those crashes involved a vehicle made between 2009 and 2018. Blown tires and brake failure were the most common factors, with brake failure accounting for 42% of fatal defect-related crashes. Such accidents will only become more prevalent as the average age of vehicles on the road goes up.

Many car crashes in Arizona are the result of defective equipment in one of the vehicles. Some of these crashes are caused by car owners who fail to maintain their vehicles by, for example, changing the tires or having the brakes checked. The tendency to neglect maintenance is often seen in older vehicles. Unfortunately, Arizona does not maintain crash statistics based on vehicle age, but it is safe to say that older cars to blame for most defect-related crashes here too.

Expertise in Navigating Defect-Related Car Accident Cases

When it comes to seeking justice and compensation in the aftermath of an accident involving older vehicles, having an experienced car accident attorney on your side is paramount. Our car accident lawyer brings a wealth of experience and expertise tailored to handle car accident cases with older vehicles. These cases often require careful analysis to identify all potential at-fault parties to ensure you received the maximum compensation you deserve. With a proven track record of successfully representing clients in similar situations, we stand ready to advocate for your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.

Drivers are keeping their older vehicles for good reasons. For one thing, a car can last some 15 years and run for 300,000 miles. Another is that newer cars are expensive; so is maintaining them because they come with sensors and other electronics. Still, this cannot excuse drivers from neglecting maintenance.

When car accidents involve defective equipment, victims may want to find out if the driver could have reasonably known about the defect and if the driver had enough time to be able to address it. If the answers are in the affirmative, victims may be able to file a personal injury claim because it would be clear that the other side was negligent. With a lawyer, victims may strive for the maximum settlement possible out of court.

Common Defects in Older Cars

As vehicles age, certain components undergo wear and tear, causing defects and leading to failure. These relatively common defects pose serious safety risks. Understanding these issues is pivotal for both car owners and those navigating the legal landscape after an accident. Some prevalent defects found in older cars include:

1. Brake System Deterioration: Over time, brake systems in older vehicles may experience corrosion or wear, compromising their effectiveness and responsiveness.
2. Faulty Airbags: Aging airbags may suffer from degradation, potentially resulting in delayed or inadequate deployment during a collision.
3. Tire Wear and Blowouts: Older tires are more susceptible to tread wear and may be prone to blowouts, particularly if not properly maintained.
4. Electrical System Malfunctions: Aging electrical systems may lead to issues such as faulty lights, failing warning indicators, or even complete electrical failures.

Understanding how these defects can contribute to accidents is crucial for assessing the overall safety of older vehicles:

1. Brake System Deficiencies: A compromised brake system can lead to delayed stopping times, increased stopping distance, and complete failure. This increases the risk of crashes by reducing the driver’s ability to avoid collisions.
2. Airbag Failures: In the event of a crash, malfunctioning airbags may fail to deploy or deploy incorrectly, leaving vehicle occupants vulnerable to more severe injuries.
3. Tire-Related Incidents: Tire blowouts can result in loss of control, especially at high speeds, leading to single- or multi-vehicle accidents.
4. Electrical Failures: Malfunctions in the electrical system can contribute to sudden breakdowns, loss of power, or the inability to know when vehicle systems are failing.

Recognizing the potential dangers associated with these defects is pivotal in promoting safer roadways.

Been in an accident with an older car?

If you or a loved one has been in an accident involving an older car, it’s time to take action. Our experienced car accident lawyer is here to help you navigate the legal system and get you the compensation you deserve. Don’t let unanswered questions linger—schedule a consultation today to protect your rights.

We understand the urgency of your situation, and we’ve made it easy for you to reach out. Choose the contact option that suits you best:

• Phone: For immediate assistance, call us at (602) 258-0646. Our dedicated team is ready to discuss your case and provide guidance on your next steps.
• Email: Reach out via email at contact@gagemathers.com to share details about your situation, and our team will promptly get back to you.
• Contact Form: Complete our online contact form. Our team will review your information and reach out to schedule a consultation.

About the Author

Joseph D'Aguanno

Guided by the belief that being a highly skilled specialist in a narrow field is better than being ordinary in everything, Joseph “JD” D’Aguanno leads Arizona’s best personal injury law firm in Phoenix, AZ. Having extensive cross-training in pre-litigation negotiations and trial lawyer skills, with decades of experience, JD strives to provide clients with the most valuable legal services a personal injury lawyer can provide. Under his direction, Gage Mathers Law Group is an award-winning personal injury law firm providing aggressive representation to victims of a car accident, medical malpractice, dog bite, motorcycle accident, and other injurious events. Gage Mathers is trusted by thousands of lawyers and clients throughout the country because of their reputation for getting clients the maximum compensation they deserve.

Years of experience: Over 24 years
Bar number: 020421
Location: Phoenix, AZ
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