Brake‑Shift Interlock Failure Injury Lawyer

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When a vehicle unexpectedly rolls away or accelerates due to brake–shift interlock failure, the consequences can be disastrous. This critical safety device is designed to prevent drivers from shifting out of “Park” without pressing the brake pedal, yet defects and system malfunctions in certain makes and models have led to serious accidents. If you’ve been injured due to a brake–shift interlock failure, you need a knowledgeable brake-shift interlock failure injury lawyer to help uncover evidence, hold manufacturers accountable, and secure full fair compensation.

What Is the Brake–Shift Interlock System—and Why It Matters

The brake–shift interlock system locks the vehicle’s gear shifter in the “Park” position until the brake pedal is pressed and/or the ignition is on. When this system fails, the vehicle can be shifted into gear—even unintentionally—leading to rollaway accidents. Several vehicle models, including popular full-size pickups and SUVs, have been recalled due to interlock pin sticking or shift lever malfunctions. These system failures significantly increase the risk of unexpected vehicle movement and injury.

Vehicles Affected by Interlock System Failures

• Full-size pickups—including certain model year RAM 1500, 2500, and 3500—were recalled after the locking pin could malfunction, allowing the vehicle to be shifted out of park without pressing the brake pedal or even with the key removed.

• Various SUV models, such as earlier generation Kia Sorento and Sedona, were recalled after owners reported rollaway incidents—one involving a child who was injured after the vehicle unexpectedly rolled forward.

• Manufacturers responded with recalls and free repairs, but victims injured before repairs were made deserve full compensation for their injuries and losses.

How Interlock Failures Cause Accidents

Defective parts, such as malfunctioning locking pins or improperly assembled shift mechanisms, can allow the shifter to exit park unintentionally. In some cases, simple actions—like children or pets applying light pressure—were enough to shift a vehicle out of “Park.” Without brake pedal depression, even a slight movement can set a vehicle in motion, leading to rollaway collisions involving pedestrians, cyclists, other vehicles, or fixed objects.

Injuries That Result from Brake–Shift Interlock Defects

• Broken arms, legs, or ribs from rollaway impact

• Head injuries and concussions

• Spinal trauma and internal injuries

• Soft tissue damage and significant emotional distress

Unexpected vehicle movements can result in injuries that require hospital care, therapy, and can cause lasting trauma—making legal assistance essential.

Why You Need a Brake–Shift Interlock Failure Injury Lawyer

Brake–shift interlock claims are complex and highly technical. You need a lawyer who will:

• Preserve the defective part and recall notices before they vanish

• Work with mechanical and reconstruction experts to prove the defect

• Document how the failure caused your injuries and link it to the vehicle defect

• Navigate the legal requirements and filing deadlines in Georgia and South Carolina

What Compensation You Can Pursue

With expert representation, you may qualify for:

• Medical expenses, current and future

• Lost income and reduced earning capacity

• Pain, suffering, and emotional distress

• Property damage, including repairs or replacement

• Punitive damages in cases of egregious manufacturer negligence

Frequently Asked Questions

Which vehicles have known interlock defects?
Full-size RAM trucks (2009–2018) and specific Kia Sorento/Sedona models (2011–2016) are among the vehicles recalled for brake–shift interlock issues.

Do I need to keep the defective part?
Absolutely. It’s critical to preserve the part before repair or disposal to support your claim.

What timeframe do I have to file a claim?
Vehicle defect claims in Georgia must typically be filed within ten years of the vehicle’s original purchase; South Carolina follows standard personal injury deadlines. Acting swiftly is important.

What if the manufacturer denies liability?
An experienced attorney can pursue a product liability lawsuit on your behalf, forcing discovery, expert testimony, and accountability.

Let Our Experience Work for You

Jamie Casino’s brake–shift interlock failure injury lawyers have helped clients in Georgia and South Carolina recover maximum compensation for injuries caused by vehicle rollaway accidents. We combine technical knowledge with legal advocacy to hold manufacturers responsible and protect your rights.

Contact a Brake–Shift Interlock Failure Injury Lawyer Today

Don’t wait if you or a loved one were injured as a result of a brake–shift interlock malfunction. Call Jamie Casino Injury Attorneys or fill out our secure online form for a free consultation. Let our dedicated team help you secure the justice and compensation you deserve.

Contact our brake interlock failure attorneys in Savannah at (912) 405-2922.