Most drivers rely on manufacturers to create safe cars and vehicle parts that minimize the risk of accidents and harm on the road. Unfortunately, defective vehicle parts can cause serious accidents, as drivers lose control of their vehicles and cause a crash.
If a defective vehicle or auto part contributed to your accident, you may have a car accident and/or product liability claim. An experienced car accident attorney can help determine whether a vehicle manufacturer or parts supplier may be responsible for your injuries. Read on to learn more about your rights.
What is an Auto Defect Accident?
An auto defect accident occurs when a crash is caused or worsened by a defective vehicle component. These defects may result from manufacturing errors related to a car part or design failures affecting a part or the entire vehicle.
Some common vehicle defects linked to accidents include:
- Brake failures
- Tire defects or blowouts
- Steering system failures
- Accelerator malfunctions
- Airbag failures
- Seatbelt defects
- Electrical system problems
In some cases, the defect directly causes the crash, such as when brakes suddenly fail. In other situations, a defect may worsen the injuries suffered in a collision, e.g., when airbags fail to deploy properly.
These cases often require detailed investigation from attorneys, engineers, and mechanical specialists to determine whether a defect contributed to the accident.
Common Injuries Related to Auto Defect Accidents
When vehicle systems fail, drivers may lose the ability to slow down, steer, or avoid hazards on the road. As a result, accidents caused by vehicle defects often occur suddenly and without warning.
Victims of these crashes may suffer injuries such as:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Severe fractures
- Internal organ damage
- Burns or lacerations
- Permanent disability
In some cases, safety defects can dramatically increase the severity of injuries that would otherwise have been survivable.
Do I Have Legal Rights After an Auto Defect Accident?
Auto defect accidents may involve several different types of legal claims. In addition to claims against negligent drivers, victims may be able to pursue product liability claims against companies involved in the design, manufacture, or distribution of the defective vehicle or part.
Depending on the circumstances, responsible parties may include:
- Vehicle manufacturers
- Auto parts manufacturers
- Parts distributors or suppliers
- Vehicle dealerships
- Mechanic shops that installed or failed to repair defective parts
Car accident and auto defect claims allow victims to recover compensation for their medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other losses caused by the crash.
An experienced Austin car accident attorney can help determine whether a defective vehicle component contributed to your accident and navigate all options for recovering compensation. Contact Dow Law Firm today to learn more about your legal options.