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Who is responsible for a crash caused by faulty brakes?

On Behalf of | Feb 15, 2023 | Motor Vehicle Accidents |

Car accidents can be traumatizing and leave you with physical, emotional and financial injuries. One of the most common causes of car crashes is brake failure or malfunction. When a car crash is caused by faulty brakes, determining who is responsible for the accident can be a complex and challenging process. 

Here are some factors that can affect liability in a brake failure accident:

The driver’s responsibility

The driver of a vehicle is responsible for ensuring that the car is in good condition before hitting the road. This means that they need to ensure that their brakes are functioning properly and they are not putting other drivers and pedestrians at risk. Drivers who fail to maintain their cars can be found negligent and held responsible for accidents due to brake failure.

The manufacturer’s responsibility

Car manufacturers have a legal duty to produce vehicles that are safe for drivers to operate. Therefore, the manufacturer may be liable for the accident if a defective or faulty brake system causes a car crash. This can include defective parts, inadequate safety testing, or other issues contributing to the brake system’s malfunction.

The mechanic’s responsibility

In some cases, a car accident may be caused by improper installation of the brakes by the mechanic. As a result, a mechanic may be held liable for any accidents that occur due to that failure. In such cases, the mechanic’s liability will depend on whether they were negligent in their duties or not.

How do you determine responsibility? 

To determine liability in a brake failure accident, it is essential that you conduct a thorough investigation of the accident. This can involve reviewing the car’s maintenance and inspection records, examining the brake system to identify defects, and interviewing witnesses who may have seen the accident.

Determining responsibility in a car accident caused by faulty brakes can be complex. Therefore, you may need to seek help from a professional who can conduct a thorough investigation of the accident and help identify the responsible party.