Signs Your Vehicle Could Have Brake Problems

Motor vehicle accidents happen because of various things. One of the things that can cause an auto accident is brake failure. While brake failure is not a common issue because of advances in vehicle design and manufacturing, brake failure accidents do happen. If you have a car, it is crucial that you know the warning signs of brake failure. Identifying a problem with your brakes early can help prevent serious injury to you, your loved ones, or other road users. In this article, we share some of the things to look out for that could indicate you have brake problems.

Sign #1: Warning Light

This is one of the most obvious signs that you could be having brake problems. While a warning light does not necessarily mean that you have brake problems, at the very least, it warrants an inspection.

Sign #2: Squeaking Noises

In most cases, any kind of strange noise from your vehicle should be a cause for concern. Squeaking or squealing brakes could indicate that your brake pads have worn out and need to be replaced. If you hear any high-pitched noises from the brakes, get them checked as soon as possible.

Sign #3: Increased Stopping Distances

Stopping distance is the time it takes you to bring your vehicle to a complete stop. It includes the time it takes you to react to the hazard and the time it takes for your car to stop after you step on the brakes. Increased stopping distances are a classic sign that the brakes may not be working well.

So, how do you know if stopping distances have increased? You don’t really need to know your exact stopping distance (although knowing this can be highly beneficial) to know when stopping distances have increased. Just ask yourself, “Does braking suddenly seem more challenging?” Another question you can ask yourself is, “Do I need increased braking force?” If braking suddenly seems more challenging or you need increased braking force, it means stopping distances have increased.

Sign #4: Vibration When Braking

If you experience vibration in the steering wheel or if your car vibrates or shakes when you step on the brakes, it could be a sign of brake problems. Wobbling or vibration could indicate that there is an issue with your brake rotor.

Sign #5: Brake Grabbing

Brake grabbing is when the brake has an unusually high brake factor, making it difficult or impossible to control. If your vehicle is pulled to one side after you step on the brakes, that is brake grabbing. Causes of this issue include a faulty brake hose and pressure imbalance in the brake calipers.

Sign #6: Brake Pulses

Suppose after you press down on your brakes, you get pulse-like feedback. This could be an indication of a brake problem. It could mean you have a warped brake rotor that needs to be repaired. You should only get pulse-like feedback from your brakes after you hit the emergency brake and your automatic braking system kicks in.

Sign #7: Spongy Brakes

It is a bad sign if your brakes feel spongy or if you must press the pedal down to the floorboard. Sponge or soft brakes may be an indication that there is moisture or air in the braking system. Spongy or soft brakes may mean you are low on brake fluid. Also, this could indicate a problem with the master cylinder.

You Can Recover Compensation After a Brake Failure Accident

If you get into a car accident involving brake failure, you may be able to recover compensation for your injuries and damages. There are many different parties that can be held liable for a brake failure accident. Some parties who may be liable for a brake failure accident include;

•       The driver or owner of the vehicle, if poor maintenance lead to the brake failure
•       The vehicle manufacturer if the brakes had a manufacturing defect and this defect caused the accident
•       The mechanic or repair shop if the brake or a component of the brake was installed incorrectly or the brakes were left in the vehicle in a defective condition

Sometimes, more than one party is to blame for a brake failure accident. If more than one party is to blame for a brake failure accident, the victim can file a claim against all the negligent parties.

However, the truth is that brake failure accidents can be difficult to prove. For this reason, it is best to hire an attorney after a brake failure accident.

Legal Help Is Available

Our Naples auto accident attorneys at The Law Offices of Marc L. Shapiro can help after a brake problems accident. Do not hesitate to contact us online or call today at (239) 977-4348.