Unintended Acceleration Accidents
Causes of unintended acceleration
Electronic malfunction is most often the cause of unintended acceleration. While there are, of course, many advantages to the increasing use of computers in vehicles, including enhanced fuel efficiency, the electronics that control the car’s powertrain can go unexpectedly and sometimes horribly awry.
What occurs in unintended or sudden acceleration
Before 1995, most instances of unintended acceleration occurred when the driver shifted the vehicle from park to drive or reverse. Now, though, as a result of more advanced electronics, it is more common for unintended acceleration to happen while the car is being driven at highway speeds or with the cruise control engaged.
Unknowingly, the driver can trigger rapid acceleration by simply performing common operations:
- Shifting gears
- Applying the brakes
- Disengaging cruise control
Any of these, as well as a multitude of other causes, can generate electromagnetic interference and cause the electronic throttle control system to malfunction.
When a car turns against the driver
A malfunction causing unintended acceleration can occur in new cars as well as cars from the late 1970s. Unintended acceleration accidents often occur within two years of the vehicle’s manufacture.
The safest way to stop the car is to first apply brakes, then try to shift to neutral. Then, when the vehicle is stopped, shift to park and turn off the ignition. Applying the brakes alone often will not stop the car. A driver involved in an unintended acceleration may be required to keep both hands on the steering wheel in order to maintain directional control, and some drivers have found that gripping the wheel with both hands helps them with leverage needed to apply maximum braking. The dangers of unintended acceleration cannot be overstated.
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When you need experience, resources, and diligent research to help your clients win their unintended acceleration accident case, call us at 866-722-1588or contact us online through our convenient form.
