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Car accidents can happen for many reasons, but not all crashes are caused by driver negligence. Mechanical failures, such as brake malfunctions, steering defects, and tire blowouts, can lead to serious accidents that leave victims with devastating injuries. When a crash occurs because of a mechanical failure, determining liability can be complicated. The driver, a manufacturer, a mechanic, or another party may be responsible, making legal guidance essential.
At Torgenson Law, we help Phoenix residents who have been injured in accidents caused by mechanical failures pursue the compensation they deserve. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a crash involving a defective vehicle or faulty repairs, our attorneys can investigate the cause, determine liability, and fight for your rights.
Before discussing how we can assist you, it is important to understand what mechanical failures lead to car accidents, who may be liable, and what steps to take after a crash.
Vehicles rely on complex systems that must function properly to keep drivers safe. When a critical component fails, even momentarily, it can cause a driver to lose control, increasing the risk of a serious accident. Mechanical failures are often the result of manufacturing defects, poor maintenance, or a lack of proper inspections.
Brakes are one of the most important safety components of any vehicle. When they fail, a driver may be unable to slow down or stop, leading to high-speed collisions. Brake failures can occur due to worn brake pads, leaking brake fluid, or faulty anti-lock braking systems. In some cases, a manufacturer may be responsible for a defective braking system, while in others, a mechanic or vehicle owner may be at fault for failing to maintain the brakes properly.
Tires must be in good condition to maintain traction and stability. A blowout or tread separation can cause a driver to lose control, especially at high speeds. Poor manufacturing, low-quality materials, or improper installation can lead to tire failure. A tire blowout may also occur if a mechanic fails to properly inspect or rotate the tires, leading to uneven wear that weakens the rubber.
Steering and suspension systems allow drivers to control their vehicles safely. When these systems fail, a driver may struggle to keep the vehicle on the road or navigate turns. Defective power steering systems, broken tie rods, or suspension issues can cause sudden loss of control. These failures may be due to manufacturer defects or improper maintenance.
Engine or transmission failures can cause sudden breakdowns that put drivers in dangerous situations. An engine that stalls in traffic or a transmission that locks up can leave a driver unable to maneuver safely. These issues can be the result of defective parts, poor maintenance, or overlooked warning signs.
Modern vehicles rely on complex electrical systems to power essential safety features, including headlights, brake lights, and turn signals. If an electrical failure occurs, drivers may be unable to signal turns, see the road properly at night, or activate hazard lights in an emergency. These failures can increase the risk of rear-end collisions, side-impact crashes, and other dangerous situations.
While airbags and other safety features are designed to protect occupants in a crash, defects can cause them to fail at critical moments. Airbags that deploy too forcefully or fail to deploy at all can lead to severe injuries. Defective seat belts, automatic braking systems, and lane departure warnings can also contribute to accidents or fail to mitigate the severity of a crash.
When a mechanical failure leads to an accident, it is essential to determine who is responsible. Liability can depend on whether the failure resulted from a manufacturer defect, improper repairs, or another party’s negligence.
Determining liability in a mechanical failure accident can be complex because multiple parties may share responsibility. Identifying the cause of the failure is the first step in holding the appropriate party accountable.
If a defective part or system caused the failure, the vehicle or parts manufacturer may be liable. Manufacturers are required to ensure that their products are safe for consumers. If a design flaw, production error, or failure to issue a recall contributed to the accident, the manufacturer may be responsible for damages.
Vehicle owners trust mechanics and repair shops to maintain and repair their cars properly. If a mechanic fails to identify a critical issue, installs a defective part, or performs repairs incorrectly, they may be held liable. For example, if a shop replaces brake pads but fails to secure them properly, leading to brake failure, they may be responsible for the resulting accident.
In some cases, the driver of the vehicle with the mechanical failure may share responsibility. If a driver neglects routine maintenance, ignores warning lights, or drives with known mechanical issues, they may be held partially at fault for the accident. Arizona follows comparative negligence laws, meaning that liability can be shared among multiple parties.
If a defective replacement part was installed in the vehicle, the manufacturer or distributor of that part may be liable. Some aftermarket parts are poorly designed or made with low-quality materials, increasing the risk of failure. If an accident occurs because of a defective replacement part, the manufacturer or seller may be responsible.
Establishing liability requires a thorough investigation into the cause of the mechanical failure. At Torgenson Law, we work with automotive experts to analyze the evidence, identify the responsible parties, and build a strong case on behalf of our clients.
Mechanical failure accidents can cause serious, life-changing injuries, especially when they occur at high speeds or result in rollovers. When a critical vehicle component fails, drivers and passengers are often left with little time to react, leading to severe impacts. Some of the most common injuries in these accidents include:
Sudden impact from a crash or a malfunctioning airbag can cause concussions or traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). These injuries may lead to cognitive impairments, memory loss, and long-term neurological complications that affect daily life.
Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis, depending on the severity of the injury. Victims may experience chronic pain, reduced mobility, or permanent disability, requiring extensive rehabilitation and long-term medical care.
Fractures commonly occur when a vehicle suddenly loses control and crashes, particularly in side-impact or rollover accidents. Broken arms, legs, ribs, and hips can require surgery, physical therapy, and prolonged recovery periods.
Blunt force trauma from a high-impact collision can cause organ damage, internal bleeding, or punctured lungs. These injuries may not be immediately apparent but can quickly become life-threatening without prompt medical attention.
If a vehicle fire or explosion occurs due to an engine failure or fuel system defect, victims may suffer severe burns. Shattered glass and sharp metal debris can also cause deep cuts, leading to scarring, infections, and long-term complications.
If you have suffered any of these injuries in an accident caused by a mechanical failure, seeking medical attention immediately is critical. Some injuries may not show symptoms right away but can worsen over time, making early diagnosis and treatment essential.
Victims of mechanical failure accidents may be entitled to compensation for the physical, financial, and emotional losses they have suffered. The amount recoverable depends on the severity of the injuries, the impact on the victim’s ability to work, and the circumstances of the accident. Compensation in these cases typically falls into three main categories: economic damages, non-economic damages, and, in certain situations, punitive damages.
Economic damages are meant to compensate accident victims for the direct financial costs resulting from the crash. These damages cover all medical expenses related to the accident, including emergency care, surgeries, hospital stays, doctor’s visits, prescription medications, physical therapy, and long-term rehabilitation. If a victim’s injuries require ongoing medical treatment, they may also receive compensation for future medical expenses.
Lost wages are another key component of economic damages. If the injuries prevent a victim from working, they may be compensated for the income they have lost during their recovery. In cases where the injuries lead to permanent disabilities that impact future earning potential, victims may be entitled to compensation for lost future wages. This includes situations where a person can no longer perform their previous job and must take lower-paying work or is unable to work at all.
Property damage is also covered under economic damages. Mechanical failure accidents can cause significant damage to vehicles, often requiring costly repairs or full replacement. Victims may receive compensation for the costs of repairing or replacing their damaged vehicle, as well as any personal belongings that were destroyed in the accident. In some cases, victims may also recover expenses related to alternative transportation, such as rental car costs, while their vehicle is being repaired.
Not all losses from a mechanical failure accident are financial. Many victims experience significant physical pain and emotional suffering that affects their overall well-being. Non-economic damages compensate for these intangible losses.
Pain and suffering damages account for the physical discomfort and long-term impact of the injuries. Some injuries, such as spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries, or severe burns, can lead to chronic pain, mobility issues, or permanent disabilities that drastically alter a person’s quality of life.
Emotional distress damages address the psychological effects of the accident. Many victims struggle with anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in the aftermath of a serious crash. These emotional hardships can make it difficult to return to work, drive again, or maintain personal relationships.
Loss of enjoyment of life is another important aspect of non-economic damages. If an injury prevents a person from participating in activities they once loved—such as sports, hobbies, or spending time with family—they may be entitled to compensation for that loss.
Punitive damages are awarded in cases where the at-fault party acted with extreme negligence or intentional misconduct. Unlike economic and non-economic damages, which are meant to compensate the victim, punitive damages serve as a penalty for the responsible party and as a deterrent to prevent similar conduct in the future.
These damages may apply if a vehicle or auto parts manufacturer knowingly sold a defective product or failed to issue a recall despite being aware of a serious safety issue. Similarly, a mechanic or repair shop that deliberately cut corners, ignored known safety hazards, or engaged in fraudulent repairs could also be held liable for punitive damages.
The amount of punitive damages awarded depends on the severity of the misconduct and the extent of harm caused to the victim. While not awarded in every case, they are an important legal tool for holding companies and individuals accountable for reckless behavior.
Navigating a mechanical failure accident claim requires experience and legal knowledge. At Torgenson Law, we investigate every aspect of the case, gather evidence, and work with experts to prove liability. Our attorneys handle negotiations with insurance companies and, if necessary, take cases to court to fight for full compensation.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident caused by a mechanical failure, contact Torgenson Law today. We understand the complexities of these cases and are ready to advocate for your rights. Call us at 602-726-0747 for a free consultation, or fill out our online contact form. There are no upfront costs, and you pay nothing unless we win your case. Let us handle the legal process while you focus on your recovery.
