Every year, thousands of people are injured because of defective vehicles. Whether it’s defective brakes, malfunctioning airbags or sudden acceleration problems, these defects can cause serious accidents and put lives in danger. If you or a loved one has been injured due to an automobile defect, you may be entitled to claim compensation from the manufacturer.
Common types of defects in vehicles
Vehicle defects can occur in various components of a car, but some of the most common include:
- Brake failure – Faulty braking systems can prevent a driver from stopping in time, leading to serious accidents.
- Airbag failures – Defective airbags may fail to deploy or deploy unexpectedly.
- Steering system failures – A defective steering system can make it impossible for the driver to maintain proper control of the vehicle.
- Tire defects – Blowouts due to manufacturing or design flaws can cause dangerous rollovers.
- Electrical system failures – Electrical system problems can be the cause of fires or sudden vehicle stoppages.
Who is liable for a defective car?
When a defective vehicle causes damage, multiple parties may be held liable, including:
- Manufacturers – The company that designed and produced the defective vehicle or part may be held liable for injuries caused by the defect.
- Dealers – If a dealer knowingly sells a defective vehicle, they may also share liability.
- Parts suppliers – In some cases, a specific component may be defective due to poor design or manufacturing by an outside supplier.
Under product liability laws, manufacturers can be held strictly liable when a defect in their product causes personal injury. The victim need not prove negligence, only that the defect existed and caused injury.
How to prove a vehicle defect case
To successfully bring a claim against a manufacturer, it is necessary to prove:
- The vehicle or part was defective – This can be proven through expert opinions and recalls.
- The defect caused the accident – You must show that the malfunction directly contributed to the accident.
- You suffered injuries or damages – Medical records, repair costs and other evidence can support your claim.
Steps to take after an accident caused by a defective car
If you suspect a vehicle defect caused your accident, follow these crucial steps:
- Seek medical attention immediately and document your injuries.
- Keep the vehicle as evidence, avoiding repairs until it has been thoroughly inspected.
- Check for recalls – The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) maintains a database of recalled vehicles. (www.nhtsa.gov).
- Consult an attorney – An experienced personal injury attorney can help you determine if you have a valid claim and guide you through the legal process.
How GB Law can help
Pursuing a claim against a major automobile manufacturer can be challenging, but at GB Law, we have the experience and resources to fight for the compensation you deserve. Our team will investigate the defect, gather the necessary evidence and aggressively defend your rights.
If you or a loved one has been injured due to a defective vehicle, don’t wait, contact GB Law today for a free consultation. You deserve justice, and we are here to help you every step of the way.