The risks of Pennsylvania automobile fires
As consumers look for ways to reduce their carbon footprint, hybrid and electric cars have become increasingly popular. But in the wake of an automobile fire involving a Chevy Volt, there have been concerns about whether these cars, though environmentally friendly, are safe for drivers.
In order to determine the relationship between car batteries and automobile fires, DEKRA Accident Research conducted a series of tests where car batteries were set on fire and extinguished. The researchers concluded that it is unlikely for a fire to spread in an electric car because there is no gasoline involved to act as an accelerant. However, when a fire started, researchers found that water alone was not enough to extinguish it, because the battery would relight itself. A recent Honda recall provides another example of a malfunction leading to a fire risk. The recall is to repair an electrical switch in the driver's door that can melt and cause a fire. Almost 490,000 CR-Vs crossovers model years 2002 to 2006 are affected.
Common causes of post-collision automobile fires
Although automobile fires caused by collisions are produced in Hollywood with regularity, in the real world, post-collision automobile fires are not common. In fact, according to the National Fire Protection Association, collisions are only responsible for 3 percent of car fires. Vehicle fires after a car crash sometimes occur in head-on collisions. Fluid can easily leak and if an engine continues to run or there is any spark, an explosion or fire can occur. The most common causes of automobile fires include electrical or mechanical failure, leaks and worn down parts.
What can you do to prevent a vehicle fire?
The following tips can help you prevent your automobile from catching on fire. First, make sure that you complete all scheduled maintenance. A yearly car inspection can catch any problems. Before a long distance road trip, it is also a good idea to get an inspection just to catch anything before you get on the road. Over the holidays many people travel and more drive than in the past, so the quick vehicle check up can ensure you reach your destination safely. Second, make sure to use a reputable mechanic and complete all recall repairs. Not all mechanics are equal, and if you choose a mechanic who is not qualified to fix your problem, it may result in car failure and a possible vehicle explosion or fire. Lastly, beware of leaks. If your car is leaking oil, coolant, gas or any other types of fluids, have the problem fixed immediately. Leaking fluids can be dangerous and act as the catalyst of a fire. If you have been injured in a motor vehicle accident that involved a vehicle explosion or fire it may have been caused by defective parts. In these circumstances, you may be able to sue the manufacturer of the vehicle for your medical expenses, lost wages and pain and suffering. In addition, if a negligent driver caused a collision that ended in a fire, you may be able to recover monetary damages from the other driver. Consult an experienced Pennsylvania personal injury attorney to learn about your rights. Navigating the legal system is a complicated process. An experienced advocate can help your through the process and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries.