Operating an inadequately maintained vehicle may increase a motorist’s risk of causing a crash while traveling on a Texas highway. Unfortunately, it isn’t uncommon to see individuals driving cars that have defective brakes, improperly inflated tires or dull headlights.
The dangers of driving vehicles that have defective brakes
At minimum, a car that has an older braking system will need more time to come to a stop. It may also take a vehicle with defective brake pads, rotors or other braking components more time to slow down. This is important because reducing a vehicle’s speed by as little as 10 miles per hour prior to an impact can significantly reduce the severity of a motor vehicle accident.
The risk of driving cars that have improperly inflated tires
A tire that is underinflated may be at a higher risk of popping or shredding while in motion. This can cause a motorist to lose control of his or her vehicle, which may result in the car crossing several lanes of traffic before coming to a stop. Conversely, tires that have too much air in them may be harder to steer, which might make it difficult to take evasive action in a timely manner.
If you are hurt in an accident caused by a defective vehicle, you may be entitled to compensation. An attorney may use witness statements, maintenance records and other evidence to show that a crash could have been avoided if the other driver had properly maintained his or her car. If a favorable outcome cannot be reached outside of court, an attorney might file a personal injury lawsuit on your behalf. Typically, a lawsuit must be filed within two years of the date of a car wreck.