The Link Between Vehicle Maintenance and Accidents

Between 2 and 6 out of every 100 car accidents are attributed to inadequate vehicle maintenance or neglected repairs. Experts at Nicolet Law analyzed U.S. fatal accident statistics to identify the most common mechanical causes and their warning signals, exploring how these issues impact both internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric vehicles (EVs).

Top 3 Mechanical Issues Causing Fatal Accidents

1. Defective Tires: A Leading Cause of Fatalities

Faulty tires are the primary cause of fatal accidents for both ICE vehicles and EVs. EV tires require replacement 20-30% more frequently than conventional vehicle tires due to battery weight and increased torque. However, drivers often delay purchasing new tires.

Consequently, defective tires contribute to approximately 300 fatal accidents involving EVs annually, while causing around 2,400 fatalities per year in ICE vehicles. “Detecting problematic tires can be challenging. Many believe everything is fine until they look bad or get a nail. But tire issues can affect a vehicle in many ways,” shares an expert.

A vibrating steering wheel at high speeds could indicate a tire problem, potentially stemming from imbalance or a hidden leak that could lead to a fatal accident.

2. The Danger After Emergency Braking

While emergency braking may seem to avert danger, it can damage seals near the master cylinder. This makes any subsequent drive more hazardous if not properly inspected. It’s crucial to inspect a vehicle after a hard braking event.

Warning signs include a spongy brake pedal, the need to apply excessive force to brake, or visible fluid leaks. “Brakes are a delicate system. Another often-overlooked issue is disc corrosion,” explains an expert. “If pads don’t remove rust regularly, they can break even after only 15,000-20,000 miles. A squealing sound right after rain can signal corrosion is already occurring.”

3. Unreliable Headlights Contribute to Nearly 500 Fatalities Annually

Headlight problems are the third leading cause of fatal accidents, responsible for approximately 40 fatalities annually among EV drivers. The issue isn’t always a simple burnt-out bulb; it can be more complex.

Warning signs include:

  • Slight flickering when turning headlights on and off.
  • Headlights shutting off after driving in the rain.
  • Dimmed brightness or a cloudy lens.

“We often see people simply lacking funds for immediate repairs, and this is more common than recklessness. Yes, paying for repairs before getting paid can affect the budget, but driving with a defective car can cost much more. EV owners should remember insurance is much more expensive and companies are less likely to cover expenses in an accident,” the expert notes.

Source: nicoletlaw.com