Chicago, Illinois Auto Accident Attorneys

Representing Clients Injured due to a Brake Shift Interlock Failure

Brake shift interlock failures cause countless auto accidents each year. Although the brake shift system is designed to function as a safety feature, defects and failures of the brake shift system can cause serious auto accidents, severe injuries and event death.

At Ankin Law, our Chicago auto defect attorneys focus on helping the victims of auto defects, including brake shift system failures, sudden acceleration and vehicle fires, recover compensation for their injuries. If you have been injured as a result of a brake shift system failure, do not hesitate to contact the knowledgeable Chicago auto defect attorneys at Ankin Law to schedule a free consultation to learn more about a possible auto defect lawsuit.

What Is the Brake Shift System?

The brake shift system is a crucial safety feature with any vehicle. There are several different types of brake shift systems, including a brake shift interlock, a brake transmission interlock, and a starter ignition interlock.

The brake shift interlock system functions by preventing a car from being moved out of part without first depressing the brake pedal so that the vehicle is not accidentally shifted into reverse or drive.

Unfortunately, brake shift systems can and do fail. In these cases, a vehicle may be shift gears into reverse or drive without the driver first depressing the brake, causing the vehicle to move without the driver’s control.

Brake Shift Interlock

The brake shift interlock system is an especially important safety feature for minivans, which are designed for family use and the passengers, including children, have easy access from the back seats to the driver seats. The brake shift interlock system is designed to prevent the vehicle from being moved into park or reverse by a child since the brake must first be depressed. Most common cause of brake shift interlock failure is a burned fuse.

Brake Transmission Interlock

A brake transmission interlock functions by applying the brake if the driver’s seat is empty and if the seat belts are not buckled properly.

Starter Ignition Interlock

Vehicles with a manual transmission generally use a starter ignition interlock, which prevents the vehicle from turning on unless the key is inserted and turned simultaneously with depression of the brake. The starter ignition interlock in vehicles with automatic transmissions requires drivers to shift the vehicle into park or neutral in order to start the car or remove the key from the ignition.

Get the Legal Help You Need

At Ankin Law, our Chicago auto defect attorneys are dedicated to protecting the victims of devastating auto accidents and auto defects, such as vehicle fires and sudden acceleration. As skilled auto product liability attorneys, we understand the complex factual and legal issues that come into play with an auto defect lawsuit, including those involving brake shift interlock failures. We consult with auto engineers and design experts, when necessary, in order to provide the evidence necessary to support your claim.

If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident involving a brake shift interlock failure, do not delay to get the legal help you need. Contact our office at (800) 442-6546 today to schedule a free consultation with one of our knowledgeable Chicago auto defect lawyers to learn more about a possible brake shift interlock lawsuit.