Every time we get behind the wheel, we trust our vehicle to respond the way it’s supposed to. But what happens when a car suddenly accelerates without warning or driver input? This terrifying scenario, known as sudden unintended acceleration, has caused serious accidents and raised major safety concerns across the U.S., including right here in Washington State.
Incidents of sudden acceleration increase Seattle car accident risks and can leave multiple victims suffering potentially catastrophic injuries. Regardless of whether the root cause is driver error, electronic malfunction, or a manufacturing defect, the consequences are real, and victims deserve answers.
At Washington Injury Law, our Seattle car accident attorney brings scientific knowledge and extensive litigation experience to bear in holding negligent automakers and other parties accountable. We explain what all drivers need to know about this dangerous issue.
Sudden Unintended Acceleration Car Accidents In Seattle
Sudden unintended acceleration is exactly what it sounds like: a vehicle suddenly accelerates, though not because the driver has done anything differently, or so they think. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) advises that while these accidents are relatively rare, they can happen and often have devastating consequences for both the driver and others involved.
While these crashes can happen when a driver accidentally hits the gas pedal rather than the brakes, other potential sudden unintended acceleration causes include:
- Sticky accelerator pedals or obstructive floor mats;
- Throttle control system failures;
- Software or sensor malfunctions;
- Electromagnetic interference with electronic systems.
The above or other factors are hard to trace and even harder to prove. Unfortunately, this can complicate unintended acceleration car accident claims. As manufacturers increasingly make cars that are reliant on electronic and computer systems, this raises serious issues regarding whether or not sudden unintended acceleration incidents will increase.
What Seattle Drivers Can Do If Faced With Sudden Unintended Acceleration
Sudden unintended vehicle acceleration is not a new issue. Back in the 1980s, more than a quarter of a million Audi 5000 models were recalled by the NHTSA for sudden unintended acceleration. By the time the recall happened, more than 271 injuries and five deaths had been reported. In 2010, more than eight million Toyota vehicles were subject to recalls due to loose floor mats that had the potential to trap the gas pedal, leading to unintended acceleration.
If you are driving in Seattle and your car suddenly begins to accelerate, the number one rule is not to panic. Taking the following steps you can take to keep you and your passengers safe:
- Apply the brakes firmly. Keep steady, strong pressure on the brake pedal. Avoid pumping the brakes, which can reduce brake effectiveness during a high-speed surge.
- Shift to neutral. This disengages the engine’s power from the wheels and stops the vehicle’s forward momentum. Your engine may rev loudly, but this is normal.
- Steer to safety. If you can, guide your vehicle toward the shoulder or a safe, out-of-the-way area. Turn on your hazard lights to warn others.
- Turn off the engine. If your car has a key ignition, turn the key. For push-button ignitions, press and hold the button for several seconds until the engine shuts off.
- Call 911 if needed. If you cannot safely move the vehicle or are in a dangerous spot, stay inside with your seatbelt on, activate hazards, and call emergency services.
Even if the situation ends without a crash, your vehicle should be immediately inspected by a mechanic or dealer. Save all repair records and report the issue to the NHTSA.
Keep in mind that even if driver error plays a role in a sudden unintended acceleration car accident, automakers have a legal duty to design their vehicles to minimize the risk of such errors and to include fail-safes whenever possible.
Your Rights In A Seattle Sudden Acceleration Car Accident Claim
If you’ve been injured in a sudden acceleration car accident in Seattle, you may be entitled to compensation. Under the Washington Revised Code, filing a product liability claim or a personal injury lawsuit can help in getting what you need to cover your costs.
These cases are often complex, requiring in-depth analysis of crash data, vehicle design, and electronic systems. This is where our firm’s unique edge comes in. With a background in science and extensive trial experience, the legal team at Washington Injury Law is equipped to take on insurance companies, auto manufacturers, and others who may be liable.
We work with expert witnesses, such as engineers, software analysts, and accident reconstructionists, to uncover the truth behind incidents. Depending on the facts in your particular case, you may be entitled to payment for:
- Medical bills related to your injuries, which include past, current, and any future potential costs.
- Lost income and future diminished earning capacity if your injuries prevent you from working.
- Pain, suffering, and mental anguish due to your injuries and the impact they have on your life.
- All property damage and other costs, including long-term care needs.
Some claims for sudden acceleration car accidents in Seattle involve class action claims or multi-district litigation (MDL), when large groups of consumers are harmed by the same defect.
Whether your case is part of a wider recall or an isolated incident, we protect your legal rights. It is important to act quickly, though, as evidence from the vehicle’s event data recorder (the “black box”) can be lost or overwritten, and waiting too long can compromise your ability to seek compensation.
Schedule A Consultation Today With Our Experienced Seattle Car Accident Attorney
Sudden unintended acceleration can be a nightmare scenario. When personal injuries happen as a result, victims need strong legal representation. At Washington Injury Law, we combine trial-tested skill with a scientific approach to build a powerful case and get the maximum compensation for our clients.
We won’t hesitate to take on large corporations or insurance companies that try to dodge responsibility. If you’ve been injured in a sudden acceleration car accident, don’t wait. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation with our experienced Seattle car accident attorney.