Incidents Caused by Vehicle Defects-Analysis of Their Characteristics

Data from in-depth investigations of 1,087 incidents caused by vehicle defects reported to an automobile insurer were examined, compiled into various categories and analyzed.

Significant results were that 530 (49%) of the incidents involved vehicle fuel system failures which caused fires. Brake system failures accounted for 301 of the remaining 557 incidents. Conclusions and recommendations are made supportive of countermeasures such as recall campaigns, upgrading of vehicle service facilities and vehicle owner education. The cost effectiveness of mandatory periodic motor vehicle inspection systems is questioned, further research, generally on vehicle safety defects and specifically on the causes of vehicle engine fires, is recommended.