Auto defects, such as brake failures and burst tires, can cause drivers to lose control of their vehicles, leading to accidents. Auto defects occur because comparatively new components are poorly designed, or are faulty and fail, or because drivers do not maintain their cars properly. They can also occur when car designers are guilty of an oversight, or when auto mechanics or repair shops fail to install components correctly.
Who is to Blame When Auto Defects Lead to Accidents?
From a legal perspective, negligence and liability are important elements. If you are injured in a crash caused by a common auto defect, it is very likely that someone was negligent. The negligent entity could be:
- The car’s designers
- Improper component installation by a repair shop
- The component or car manufacturers
- Drivers who fail to maintain their cars properly
This will be important if you have been harmed in an accident caused by an auto defect. Your lawyers must identify and claim compensation from the liable party. Investigating the cause of auto defects can be complex, and you may need expert witnesses to testify on your behalf. Reach out to our auto defect lawyers in Newnan.
New Cars Are Less Likely to Be Involved in Accidents Involving Common Auto Defects
When considering auto defects, most people think about bad design. However, a recent study suggests that drivers from lower-income zip codes are more likely to be involved in serious accidents resulting from auto defects.
The implications are that people in straitened financial circumstances often drive older cars and may cut corners when it comes to maintenance. In a sense, this is understandable. Most people will remember some time in their lives when they drove a car knowing that the tires ought to be replaced, for example.
Those of us who are familiar with this type of situation may recall feeling worried about safety while still needing our cars to get around. However, this does not change the fact that driving an unroadworthy car is a negligent act.
Current Auto Defect Lawsuits and Recalls Involving Newer Cars
Lawsuits involving product liability owing to auto defects in new cars and safety-related recalls are high-profile matters that frequently make news headlines. For example, at the time of writing, Tesla is facing several lawsuits related to its “self-driving” features, which motorists blame for risks and accidents.
The automaker is not alone in facing legal complications related to auto defects, as several other manufacturers are also facing safety complaints, recalls, and lawsuits. To stay informed about the latest recalls, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website.
Common Auto Defects That Can Cause Accidents
According to the study we referenced earlier, brake failure is the most common cause of auto-defect-related car accidents. Tire blowouts or separations are the second most common reason why cars crash due to a defect. Poor traction from worn tires with improper tread depth, a common car maintenance issue, occupied third place.
However, there are many other types of defects that can lead to accidents. These include:
- Headlight or tail light failure
- Steering failures
- Accelerator defects
- Door latch defects
- Advanced driver assistance defects
In almost every instance, the first question is whether a defect that caused a car accident occurred due to poor maintenance or whether a manufacturer or repair shop was to blame. When car makers face product liability claims, they will fiercely contest claims that their cars or components are defective.
Members of the public have recovered substantial settlements despite this. The 2011 verdict to the tune of $1.1 billion against Toyota after it was accused of selling a car with a “sticky” accelerator pedal illustrates how big companies can be held liable for their oversights.
When Accidents Are Caused by Auto Defects, Lawsuits Follow and Often Succeed
The message is clear. Members of the public who have been harmed due to auto defects that caused accidents have legal rights. No matter how large and powerful a liable party is, they can be brought to book.
To navigate the process, injured parties will need lawyers to represent them. Skilled auto accident lawyers in Newnan will often offer free case evaluations and may negotiate contingency fees that are only paid if they win. This enables injured individuals to obtain strong representation, allowing justice to follow its rightful course.