Sudden Unintended Acceleration: Causes, Liabilities, and Legal Recourse

Sudden unintended acceleration (SUA) is a perplexing automotive phenomenon that has gained significant attention due to its potential dangers and legal implications. In New Jersey, as in many other states, instances of vehicles unexpectedly accelerating without driver input have led to accidents, injuries, and even fatalities. This article delves into the causes of sudden unintended acceleration, explores the liabilities involved, and outlines the legal recourse available to victims in New Jersey.

Causes of Sudden Unintended Acceleration:

Sudden unintended acceleration can be attributed to a combination of mechanical, electrical, and human factors. Some potential causes include:

1. Mechanical Failures: Defective or malfunctioning components, such as faulty throttle systems, brake pedals, or transmission systems, can contribute to sudden unintended acceleration.

2. Electronic Malfunctions: Glitches in electronic control systems, including the vehicle’s engine control module (ECM) or electronic throttle control (ETC), can misinterpret driver commands and lead to unintended acceleration.

3. Pedal Misapplication: Drivers inadvertently pressing the accelerator instead of the brake pedal, particularly in high-stress situations, can cause unintended acceleration.

4. Software Errors: Faulty software coding in a vehicle’s electronic systems could result in unintended acceleration. This could stem from errors during the vehicle’s design, manufacturing, or software updates.

5. Design Defects: Poor vehicle design that places the accelerator pedal too close to the brake pedal or lacks appropriate safety features can contribute to SUA incidents.

Liabilities in Sudden Unintended Acceleration Cases:

Determining liability in SUA cases can be complex and may involve multiple parties:

• Automakers: If a design defect, manufacturing flaw, or inadequate testing is found to be responsible for the sudden unintended acceleration, the automaker could be held liable.
• Parts Manufacturers: If the SUA is traced back to a faulty component, such as a defective accelerator pedal or sensor, the manufacturer of that part might share liability.
• Maintenance and Repair Shops: If improper repairs or maintenance contribute to the mechanical or electronic failure leading to SUA, the repair shop or technician could be held accountable.
• Rental Companies: If a rental car is involved in an SUA incident, the rental company might be liable if they failed to properly maintain the vehicle or address known issues.
• Driver Negligence: In cases of pedal misapplication, the driver’s negligence could be a contributing factor, although automaker liability might still apply if the design facilitated such errors.

Legal Recourse for Victims:

Victims of sudden unintended acceleration in New Jersey have legal avenues to seek compensation for damages:

1. Product Liability Claims: Victims can file product liability claims against automakers or parts manufacturers if the incident is linked to a design or manufacturing defect.

2. Negligence Claims: If a maintenance or repair shop’s negligence contributed to the SUA incident, victims can pursue compensation through negligence claims.

3. Wrongful Death Claims: In fatal SUA cases, surviving family members can file wrongful death claims to seek compensation for their losses.

4. Class Action Lawsuits: If multiple individuals experience SUA incidents linked to the same vehicle model, a class-action lawsuit against the automaker might be appropriate.

5. Insurance Claims: Victims can also pursue compensation through their insurance policies, especially if the responsible party’s liability is established.

Key Takeaway:

Sudden unintended acceleration is a serious safety concern that can have severe consequences for drivers, passengers, and pedestrians. Victims of SUA incidents in New Jersey have legal options to hold responsible parties accountable and seek compensation for their injuries, damages, and losses. Whether the cause is mechanical, electronic, or human error, consulting with an experienced legal professional is essential to navigate the complexities of SUA cases and ensure that justice is served.

Contact Lombardi & Lombardi Today for a Free Consultation About Your Auto Defect Lawsuit

When faced with the aftermath of a sudden unintended acceleration accident, the experienced legal team at Lombardi & Lombardi is here to guide you toward justice. Our seasoned attorneys understand the complexities of auto defect lawsuits and are dedicated to fighting for your rights. With a proven track record of holding automakers and manufacturers accountable, we’re committed to securing the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.

Our firm boasts a deep understanding of auto defect cases, ensuring you have knowledgeable advocates by your side. We’ve successfully secured significant settlements for our clients, reaffirming our commitment to delivering tangible results. Your case is unique, and we tailor our strategies to your specific circumstances, providing you with personalized attention every step of the way.

Lombardi & Lombardi will relentlessly advocate for your rights, holding responsible parties accountable for their negligence. If you or your loved ones have been affected by sudden unintended acceleration due to auto defects, don’t wait to seek justice. Contact us today for a free consultation to explore your legal options. Our team is dedicated to helping you rebuild and move forward with the compensation you deserve.