"Unintended acceleration in certain vehicle models with braking issues should be approached in relation to brake fade phenomena. It is necessary to verify the occurrence of reduced braking power, which results in the inability to stop even when the brake
The issue of unintended acceleration in certain vehicle models is closely related to brake failure and brake fade phenomena. To verify this, it is necessary to conduct experiments where wheel drive and brake pedal operation occur simultaneously while heat from friction is accumulated, leading to a reduction in braking power, making it difficult to stop even when the brake is applied.
The brake failure in vehicles with unintended acceleration is closely linked to brake fade. To verify this, experiments should be conducted under conditions where friction heat is accumulated while simultaneously applying the brake pedal and experiencing wheel drive. This approach can help identify trends.
In rear-wheel drive vehicles, the braking force at the rear is designed to be weaker than at the front. Therefore, if a rear-wheel drive vehicle experiences unintended acceleration while friction heat is accumulated, it may become difficult to control or stop the vehicle even when the brake pedal is pressed.
Brake fade is a phenomenon where excessive friction heat is generated in the braking system, causing the temperature of the brake pads or discs to rise, which leads to a rapid decline in braking performance. This issue is particularly problematic during downhill driving, rapid acceleration, or unintended acceleration, as excessive heat can impair the braking system, making it hard to stop the vehicle.
If video evidence of the unintended acceleration is secured, the driver’s claim of pressing the brake during the incident can be attributed to the increased friction heat at that moment. In a scenario where the accelerator pedal is pressed to the maximum (100%) while also pressing the brake pedal to the maximum (100% up/down), brake fade can occur, and due to the significant force from the engine and drive, issues may arise in the braking system. Therefore, both claims of 100% accelerator and 100% brake pedal application can be valid.
The investigation should comprehensively analyze the differences in thermal deformation and wear of the front and rear brake discs and pads based on the drive type (front/rear), the temperature of the braking system during brake fade, tire replacement history, tire wear, mileage, maintenance history, brake fluid composition and moisture content, and the presence of foreign substances. Additionally, comparing with other similar vehicle models (at least three of the same class) would be beneficial.
In conclusion, incidents of unintended acceleration in vehicles cannot simply be attributed to driver error; they are complex issues. A comprehensive review of the vehicle's mechanical condition and the performance of the braking system, including brake fade phenomena, is essential for making a fair and accurate judgment.
It is crucial to confirm whether such phenomena actually occur and to identify any trends. Understanding the feelings of those wronged and the situation where no one believes them, especially when all evidence seems to point to driver error, is important. It is hoped that at least the courts in South Korea will uphold the presumption of innocence until the Supreme Court's ruling.
May no one suffer unjustly, and at this moment, another record is made.
The famous scene from the movie "Sunflower" comes to mind: “Did it really have to be that way? Did you really have to take everything to feel relieved? It shouldn’t have been that way.”