Automotive technology is designed to make driving safer. However, when these computerized systems fail, the consequences can be catastrophic for the parties involved.

Here's a look at how faulty vehicle software causes vehicle crashes.

Types of Vehicle Software Faults

Vehicle software controls everything from your car's stability to its braking ability. Electronic faults often affect the following systems:

• electronic throttle control
• anti-lock braking systems (ABS)
• emergency braking
• electronic stability control

Some vehicles are fully autonomous, meaning they drive themselves – unsurprisingly, faults in such “driverless” systems can have dire consequences for other road users and pedestrians.

Software Failure Accidents

Software defects may not be detected until after a crash. In the meantime, these failures can cause:

• brake failure
• loss of steering control
• unintended acceleration
• sudden airbag release
• vehicle rollover

High-speed collisions, rear-end crashes, and multi-vehicle accidents can occur as a result.

Who to Sue for Vehicle Computer Errors

Automobile manufacturers are responsible for ensuring their vehicles are safe to drive. So, if a computer error caused you to crash and you suffered injuries from the collision, it's possible to sue the manufacturer for compensation. And depending on the nature of your claim, you might also sue other parties involved in the supply chain, such as wholesalers, distributors, and retailers.

To make a successful claim, you must show that:

• the product had an “unreasonably dangerous” defect; and
• you were injured while using the vehicle for its intended purpose; and
• you didn't alter the vehicle's software before the crash.

Helpfully, it's not always necessary to prove negligence in product liability claims – it can be enough to show that the product (in this case, the software) didn't work properly.     

Car Crash Attorney in Connecticut 

When it comes to vehicle crash claims, it's important you sue the right party to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. As an experienced car crash attorney in Connecticut, I have handled many complex personal injury claims relating to vehicle accidents – and I want to represent you, too. Please call 203-339-5991 or contact me online to schedule a consultation—and watch this video to learn more.