Accidents Caused by Mechanical Failure in Tennessee

At The Law Offices of John Day, P.C., we provide legal representation to individuals and families throughout Nashville, Davidson County, and across Middle Tennessee who have been injured in motor vehicle accidents—including those caused by mechanical failures. From our offices in Brentwood, Nashville, and Murfreesboro, we help clients navigate the complex legal and technical issues these cases present. Accidents involving brake failures, tire blowouts, steering malfunctions, and other mechanical problems are often more complicated than typical collisions. Establishing responsibility may require evaluating whether the driver neglected maintenance, whether a manufacturer sold a defective product, or whether a repair shop performed substandard work. Our firm has the legal knowledge, investigative tools, and litigation experience necessary to uncover the truth and pursue compensation from all responsible parties.

Understanding Mechanical Failure Accidents

A mechanical failure accident involves the malfunction of a vehicle system that renders the vehicle unsafe and directly contributes to a crash. These failures may stem from multiple causes, such as manufacturing defects, neglected maintenance, improperly performed repairs, unaddressed recall issues, or simple wear and tear ignored by the owner. Unlike standard driver-error accidents, mechanical failure crashes may involve various liable parties, including automakers, parts manufacturers, repair shops, and even the vehicle’s current or previous owners.

Common Types of Mechanical Failures Leading to Accidents

Brake failure is among the most dangerous types of mechanical malfunctions. This may result from worn brake pads, low fluid levels, defective anti-lock braking systems (ABS), or systemic defects from the manufacturer. Tire blowouts are another leading cause of crashes, often linked to under-inflation, tread separation, improper mounting, or tire defects. Steering and suspension failures can render a driver unable to control the vehicle, especially during high-speed travel or while turning. Engine or transmission malfunctions—such as stalling or sudden shutdowns—may lead to sudden loss of power in traffic. Electrical failures, such as malfunctioning brake lights, turn signals, or headlights, can impair visibility and communication with other drivers. In some cases, airbag or seatbelt defects result in more severe injuries than the crash itself, as these vital safety systems fail to protect the occupants as intended.

Liability in Mechanical Failure Accidents

Determining who is legally responsible in a mechanical failure accident requires a careful, fact-specific analysis. A vehicle’s owner or operator may be liable if they failed to maintain the vehicle properly—such as ignoring brake warnings or driving on worn tires. If the crash was caused by a defective part, the vehicle or component manufacturer may be held strictly liable under Tennessee product liability law. Automotive repair shops may be responsible if they misdiagnosed a problem, used faulty parts, or performed repairs incorrectly. In certain cases, used car dealerships or sellers may bear liability for failing to disclose known issues or misrepresenting the vehicle’s condition.

Relevant Tennessee Statutes

Several state laws apply in mechanical failure crash cases. Under T.C.A. § 55-9-202, all vehicles must be maintained in safe operating condition, including functional brakes, steering, and lights. Tennessee’s product liability law, T.C.A. § 29-28-105, permits injured parties to bring claims against manufacturers or sellers for defects that render a vehicle or component unreasonably dangerous. Under T.C.A. § 55-12-102, drivers must maintain liability insurance—even when a crash results from a mechanical issue. Personal injury claims must generally be filed within one year of the accident, per T.C.A. § 28-3-104(a)(1)(A), making early legal action essential.

Establishing a Strong Legal Claim

To succeed in a mechanical failure case, you must show that a vehicle or its component failed, that the failure caused or contributed to the crash, that it resulted from negligence or a defective product, and that you suffered damages. Our firm builds strong cases using crash reports, maintenance and repair records, manufacturer recall notices, technical service bulletins, expert testimony from mechanics and engineers, black box data, and physical inspection of the vehicle. We take steps to preserve evidence promptly, including securing damaged parts and preventing vehicles from being repaired or destroyed before they can be evaluated.

Comparative Fault in Tennessee

Tennessee law uses what is called  modified comparative fault. If you are found to be 50% or more responsible for the accident, you cannot recover compensation. If you are less than 50% at fault, your recovery is reduced in proportion to your level of responsibility. In mechanical failure cases, this can be particularly important. Even if the driver failed to maintain the vehicle, a manufacturer or service provider may also be partially liable. Our team carefully investigates all parties’ roles to determine if  someone other than the car owner is responsible for a mechanical failure. 

Injuries Commonly Associated with Mechanical Failure Accidents

Accidents caused by mechanical problems can be especially severe, often occurring suddenly and at high speeds. Victims may suffer traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, broken bones, internal bleeding, burns, or amputations. In many cases, these crashes result in wrongful death. Even in less severe cases, victims may develop chronic pain, mobility limitations, or psychological trauma that significantly impact their quality of life and ability to work.

Recoverable Damages

Victims of mechanical failure accidents may be entitled to compensation for a wide range of losses. These include current and future medical expenses, lost wages, reduced earning capacity, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and property damage. In fatal cases, families may pursue wrongful death damages under T.C.A. § 20-5-106, including funeral costs, loss of financial support, and loss of companionship. Our attorneys collaborate with economic and medical experts to fully evaluate each client’s damages and build a compelling case for full compensation.

How The Law Offices of John Day, P.C. Can Help

Mechanical failure cases are highly technical and often involve aggressive legal defenses from manufacturers or insurers. At The Law Offices of John Day, P.C., we handle these complex cases with precision, determination, and a client-centered approach. We move quickly to preserve key evidence and collaborate with trusted experts in accident reconstruction and automotive engineering. Our attorneys are experienced in product liability law and know how to challenge manufacturers, parts suppliers, repair facilities, and sellers when warranted. We also take on the insurance companies, ensuring they honor their policy obligations and negotiate in good faith. From your first call to the final resolution of your case, you’ll receive personalized attention and frequent updates about your claim.

What to Do After a Suspected Mechanical Failure Crash

If you believe a mechanical failure contributed to your accident, take immediate steps to protect your health and legal rights. Seek medical attention right away, even if injuries are not immediately apparent. Preserve the vehicle and do not authorize repairs or disposal until it has been properly inspected. It legal action is contemplated, it is essential that the vehicle not be altered in any way until appropriate legal steps have been taken. Obtain the police report, take photos of the crash scene and vehicle damage, and note any recent recall notices for your vehicle. Contact an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible so that critical evidence can be gathered and protected.

Schedule a Free Consultation

If you or a loved one has been injured in a crash involving mechanical failure, don’t wait to get legal help. Tennessee law generally gives you just one year to file a personal injury lawsuit, and waiting too long may mean losing the opportunity to recover compensation. At The Law Offices of John Day, P.C., we are ready to investigate your case, identify all responsible parties, and fight for the justice and financial support you deserve.

Call us today at (615) 742-4880 or visit our website to request a free, no-obligation consultation. There are no fees unless we win your case. Let us put our experience and resources to work for you.