You’re driving on I-35W when your anti-lock brakes fail, or your airbag light starts flashing. These moments can turn a routine drive into a scary situation. In Minnesota’s harsh weather, working safety features can differentiate between a close call and a crash.
What counts as a safety malfunction?
Your car tells you about problems in different ways. Watch out for:
- Warning lights that pop up on your dashboard
- Strange noises when you brake
- Changes in how your steering wheel feels
- Backup cameras that go dark
- Traction control that works off and on
Some problems jump out right away, while others sneak up slowly. Either way, you need to act fast when you spot them.
What you need to do right now
Start by writing down what’s happening with your car. This matters if you need to prove when the problems started. Here’s your action plan:
- Take pictures of any warning lights.
- Call your car dealer for an urgent check.
- Keep all repair and service papers.
- Look up your car on NHTSA.gov for recalls.
- Tell NHTSA about your problem.
- Stay off roads during lousy weather until fixes are done.
After these steps, consider your safety first. Don’t drive your car if it feels unsafe. Car makers must fix safety problems under warranty. Minnesota law backs you up when car parts fail and cause crashes.
Sometimes, these issues lead to accidents before you can fix them. That’s when you need a lawyer who knows about lousy car parts. They can help you deal with car companies and determine who should pay for damages. The key is to act fast. Both to stay safe and to protect your rights under the law.
Remember: A mechanic can fix your car, but only a lawyer can help if that broken safety feature causes a crash. The sooner you get help, the better your chances of getting fair treatment for damages or injuries.