More old cars means more defect-related crashes

Tennessee residents who drive an older vehicle may be at a higher risk for a preventable car crash. At least, this is the case in Ohio. According to the Ohio Highway Patrol, 56% of car crashes in the past three years that involved defective equipment were caused by vehicles made between 1999 and 2008. Model year 2009-2018 vehicles accounted for 24% of such crashes in that state.

The most common cause of defect-related crashes were blown tires. Forty-two percent of fatal defect-related crashes were due to them. Brake failure was another frequently reported factor.

The OHP also says that the average age of vehicles in that state has gone up from 9.6 years in 2002 to 11.8 years in 2020. Cars can last for around 15 years and 300,000 miles, so drivers who don’t have the income to buy a new car will naturally hold on their old cars. The problem is that many with older vehicles will neglect routine maintenance, especially tire replacement. Other repairs can be costly, especially for new vehicles that come with cameras and sensors.

When car accidents occur because one of the drivers failed to maintain his or her vehicle, then victims may hold that driver accountable for their injuries. To see how much they might be eligible for in light of Tennessee’s modified comparative negligence rule, victims may wannt to meet with a lawyer. The lawyer, if retained, may hire crash investigators to gather proof of the defendant’s negligence. The lawyer may also attempt a settlement, taking the case to court if one isn’t achieved.