One of the most often overlooked causes of car accidents is equipment failures and auto defects. While tremendous improvements in vehicle safety have been made over the past few decades, vehicle defects remain a common cause of car accidents. Not only do defects and malfunctions cause car crashes, but they can also result in severe injuries and sometimes even death.
If you or someone you know has been injured or killed in a car accident due to a vehicle defect, it’s essential to take prompt legal action. Consulting a knowledgeable car accident lawyer is the best way to understand the scope of your situation and whether you have grounds to file a claim against your car manufacturer.
At Sutliff & Stout, we are dedicated to ensuring the victims of manufacturer defects receive justice and compensation for their damages. Our car accident attorneys are skilled in both negotiating on your behalf or going to trial and fighting for your rights. Here is some important information to know about how auto defects contribute to car accidents.
What Are the Common Types of Auto Defects?
Car manufacturers are required to comply with federal regulations and standards enforced by the National Highway Traffic and Safety Association (NHTSA). The NHTSA recalls vehicles and auto parts when they fail to meet their standards. Cars, motorcycles, and trucks can have defects in various areas, including design, the way it was manufactured, or in the installation of a specific part. Some examples of common auto defects include:
- Airbags that don’t correctly deploy
- Seat belt failures
- Tire defects
- Critical car components that fall apart or separate from the vehicle
- Faulty fuel system components that cause leaks or fires
- Steering components that fail, causing the driver to lose control of the vehicle
Unfortunately, it can be challenging to prove that an accident was the direct result of an auto defect, as it is not always immediately obvious that the defect was responsible for the crash. Therefore, it’s best to have a trusted attorney on your side who can conduct the investigation needed to prove manufacturer defects were at play in your accident
Pursuing Compensation for Your Damages
Automobile and auto part manufacturers are required to put products on the market that are reasonably safe or to provide proper safety warnings for certain parts that may pose dangers. When manufacturers fail to uphold this duty, affected parties may be able to file a product liability lawsuit to pursue compensation for their damages. Depending on the circumstances surrounding your accident, you may be able to pursue a claim against the automobile manufacturer, the manufacturer of the defective part, or the car dealership that sold the vehicle. Some of the damages you may be able to receive compensation for include:
- Property damage
- Lost wages or income
- Reduced earning capacity
- Medical expenses (both present and future)
- Emotional and physical pain and suffering
- Disability and disfigurement
When you meet with a skilled attorney, they will examine all the factors surrounding your crash and determine if you have grounds to pursue a product liability claim.
Contact the Personal Injury Lawyers at Sutliff & Stout
Being involved in a car accident can be an extremely taxing and stressful experience—especially when the crash was caused by manufacturer defects. If you suspect your accident was caused by auto defects, it’s essential to seek legal counsel from a skilled personal injury lawyer. Car accident claims involving manufacturer defects can be complex, and it’s imperative to have a trusted attorney on your side.
At Sutliff & Stout, we understand the headache accompanied by car accidents and are committed to taking a personalized approach to every case. Our team has been recognized as one of the top personal injury law firms in Houston, and we have helped thousands of individuals with their car accident claims.
If you are looking to discuss your car accident case with a personal injury lawyer, the team at Sutliff & Stout is here to help. Call us today at (713) 987-7111 or contact us online to discuss your injury or car accident claim.
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