Possible defect leads to fatal accident

There are so many things that drivers have to worry about while behind the wheel. They must monitor their speed, lane position, proximity to other drivers and other road hazards that could potentially lead to an accident. In the midst of these cognitive demands, they should not have to worry about mechanical issues (i.e. oil levels, brake integrity, problems with belts).

Unfortunately, mechanical problems led to a fatal accident in Egg Harbor Township. According to a report by the Press of Atlantic City, a 35 year old woman was on her way to fill out a job application when her car malfunctioned and crossed into oncoming traffic. Her car then hit a pickup truck, which ended up crushing the roof on the woman’s car.

The woman was killed. Her niece and another child in the car were seriously injured. The driver of the pickup truck was not injured.

The accident is still under investigation, but it appears that there may have been a problem with the car’s steering column that caused the woman to lose control of the car. Investigators may be able to uncover whether the car was defective or driver error caused the crash.

If a defect was involved, the crash is an unfortunate reminder that car manufacturers have a legal duty to inform consumers of mechanical flaws that could potentially lead to injuries. Manufacturers are in a unique position to know how certain defects may affect the car before a driver would. If the manufacturer fails to take reasonable steps to correct such defects, it can be held liable for any resulting injuries.

Source: Press of Atlantic City.com, Atlantic City mother of five killed in Delilah Road crash, March 13, 2013