Arizona Motorcycle Lawyers for Motorcycle Brake Failure 

When riding a motorcycle, brakes are among the most important safety devices you can have. Without the ability to stop effectively, accidents are almost certain to happen, especially on a motorcycle. In addition, motorcycle riders are much more likely to be injured in the event of an accident. According to one estimate, 80% of motorcycle riders are injured in accidents.

A defective brake system can prevent a motorcycle rider from stopping to avoid an oncoming vehicle or an object in the road. It is important to properly maintain your bike's brake system and perform regular checkups. However, even if you are vigilant in maintaining your motorcycle, a design flaw or manufacturing problem can cause the brakes to malfunction when you need them most.

If your brake system malfunctioned as a result of a design flaw or manufacturing error, the manufacturer may be liable for your damages, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you were involved in a motorcycle accident in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe, or elsewhere in Maricopa County, you should contact an experienced Arizona motorcycle attorney to discuss your case. The motorcycle lawyer can help you determine if you have a case against the manufacturer.

Causes of Brake Failure

Brake failure may be caused by a variety of factors, either individually or working in combination. These factors include, but are not limited to:

• Grease or oil on the brakes. If oil or grease leaks on the brakes, it can prevent the brakes from getting proper friction and stopping effectively. An oil leak may be caused by a broken oil seal.
• Improperly mounted calipers. If calipers are not mounted properly, they may come loose and not allow the brake to stop properly.
• "Hot Spots." Brakes may overheat, causing the rotor and drum to develop "hot spots" that are resistant to friction.
• Cracked brake cylinder. Improperly manufactured brake cylinders may crack and result in brake failure.
• Thin brake pads. Brake pads may wear thin and prevent the brakes from working properly. Though this is usually avoided through changing the pads regularly, improperly manufactured pads may wear thin more rapidly than they should.

Warning Signs of Brake Failure

Brake failure can be difficult to recognize. However, here are a few warning signs that brake failure may have played a role in your accident:

• Squealing or squeaking brakes
• Grinding noises when you brake
• Bike pulls to one side while braking
• Brake require more pressure than normal to stop
• Brake pedal is hard to depress

Let your Arizona motorcycle attorney know if any of these conditions were present on your motorcycle, especially if they were present immediately prior to the accident.

Contact an Arizona Motorcycle Lawyer