Not every car accident is caused by reckless driving, distracted motorists, or bad weather. In many cases, the real danger lies under the hood—hidden in worn-out brakes, bald tires, or an ignored check engine light. Skipping regular car maintenance may seem harmless, especially when life gets busy. But in the event of an accident, deferred maintenance can become a serious legal issue.
Vehicle owners are legally required to ensure their vehicles are in working order and safe to drive. When neglected repairs contribute to a crash, the owner can be held liable for damages, even if they weren’t driving. In some cases, it may even affect insurance coverage or lead to lawsuits if others are injured.
Below, we talk about the legal consequences of skipping car maintenance, how it can factor into accident claims, and what drivers should know to protect themselves from liability.
The Link Between Maintenance and Liability
Routine maintenance isn’t just recommended—it’s a safety measure. Failing to address obvious issues with your vehicle can make you responsible for an otherwise avoidable accident.
Some of the most common maintenance-related issues that lead to accidents include:
- Worn brake pads or faulty brake systems
- Bald or underinflated tires
- Broken headlights or taillights
- Malfunctioning windshield wipers
- Steering or suspension issues
When these problems are left unchecked and lead to a crash, an investigation may reveal that the accident was preventable. If it can be proven that the vehicle owner knew—or should have known—about the problem, they may be held negligent.
What the Law Says About Vehicle Maintenance
In most states, including New Jersey, New York, and Connecticut, vehicle owners are legally required to maintain their cars in a reasonably safe condition. Traffic laws often reference mechanical standards, and failing to meet them can lead to citations or increased liability in civil cases.
For example, New Jersey's Title 39: Motor Vehicles and Traffic Regulation states that vehicles must be equipped with properly functioning brakes, tires, lights, and other critical safety components. If a crash occurs and the vehicle was found to be defective due to neglect, the owner may be liable.
In a civil personal injury claim, this could fall under the broader concept of negligence. To prove negligence, a plaintiff must show:
- The defendant had a duty of care (in this case, to maintain the vehicle)
- That duty was breached (maintenance was skipped or ignored)
- The breach directly caused the accident
- The accident resulted in damages (injury, property loss, etc.)
Could Skipping Maintenance Affect Your Insurance Claim?
Yes. Insurance companies investigate the causes of accidents closely. If it’s discovered that poor maintenance played a role, your claim might be denied or reduced. For example, if bald tires contributed to your inability to stop in time, the insurer may argue that you're partially at fault under comparative negligence laws.
This can be especially damaging in states like Connecticut and New Jersey, where compensation may be reduced proportionally to your degree of fault. In extreme cases, if the vehicle is found to be uninsurable due to a known defect, coverage may be denied entirely.
Who Can Be Held Liable?
The Vehicle Owner
Whether you were driving or loaned your car to someone else, you could be held responsible if an accident stems from a mechanical issue you failed to fix.
The Driver
If someone borrows a car they know is unsafe, they could also share liability. This can happen in both private and commercial settings.
Mechanics or Shops
If a mechanic failed to properly repair a known issue, or if a shop certified a car as safe when it wasn’t, they may also be partially liable under product or service negligence.
Proving Maintenance-Related Negligence
Proving that a lack of maintenance caused a crash requires evidence. This can include:
- Vehicle inspection reports
- Maintenance records (or lack thereof)
- Police reports noting faulty equipment
- Witness statements
- Accident reconstruction expert opinions
The more documentation that shows the vehicle was in disrepair before the crash, the stronger the case becomes.
Protecting Yourself With Preventive Maintenance
One of the best ways to avoid legal trouble is simply to stay on top of routine car care. That includes:
- Regular oil changes
- Checking brakes, tires, and lights
- Replacing worn windshield wipers
- Addressing dashboard warning lights promptly
Not only does this reduce the risk of an accident, but it also shows that you’re acting responsibly—which can be important in a legal dispute.
Call Brandon J. Broderick For Legal Help
If you've been involved in an accident where vehicle maintenance may be a factor, Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, is here to help.
We understand how complex accident claims can become, especially when mechanical issues are involved. Our team will thoroughly investigate the circumstances, gather the necessary evidence, and fight for a fair outcome on your behalf.
Don’t wait to get answers. Contact us today for a free consultation.