Car accidents caused by auto defects are often sudden and unexpected and can result in serious injuries. When a vehicle fails to function properly as it should, the driver is at risk of losing control of the vehicle and causing an accident with other motorists or pedestrians on the roadway. While there are numerous auto parts which can be defective, any type of auto defect can be a safety hazard and should be taken seriously.

What Are Auto Defects?

Auto defects refer to mechanical or design problems in motor vehicles which can cause the vehicle to have safety risks such as malfunctioning. Common auto defects which can lead to car accidents include faulty brakes which fail to stop a car in time to prevent a collision, defective airbags that fail to deploy, and design flaws that affect a car’s stability, such as a tendency to rollover. Other examples of auto defects include faulty steering systems, malfunctioning electrical systems, or engine defects that can cause sudden loss of power. 

When a vehicle has an auto defect, it is not always immediately visible which can make it difficult to take preventative action to avoid accidents. Auto defects can cause sudden or unexpected malfunctions when driving a vehicle which creates a serious safety risk to drivers, passengers, and others on the road. In some severe cases, auto defects can lead to catastrophic accidents and injuries, which can be costly and even life-threatening. 

Signs an Auto Defect May Have Caused an Accident

There are several signs that an auto defect may have caused a car accident. One of the most obvious signs of an auto defect-related accident is if the vehicle suddenly malfunctioned or lost control, without any apparent reason or external factors. Any unexpected or sudden changes in the functioning of a vehicle can be a sign of an auto defect. Another sign can include unusual noises or vibrations coming from the car, such as screeching brakes or grinding gears, which may result in car accidents due to brake system malfunctioning. 

Additionally, if the airbags failed to deploy during an accident or deployed at the wrong time, it may be a sign of a defect in the airbag system. Malfunctioning airbag systems can result in serious injuries if they fail to protect the driver or passenger in the event of a car accident, as well as if they deploy unexpectedly. Another sign of an auto defect which may be a cause for a car accident is improper steering response from a faulty steering system. If a vehicle failed to steer properly resulting in a car accident, the driver may have a product liability claim for the defective auto part.

Who Is Responsible for Auto Defect-Related Accidents?

In auto defect-related car accidents, there are several parties which may be held liable depending on the specifics of the case. Liable parties can include the manufacturer of the vehicle or any of its auto parts, the distributor who sold the vehicle or auto part, or the dealership that sold or serviced the vehicle. 

In product liability cases for an auto defect causing damages, the responsibility falls onto those who designed, manufactured, or distributed the defective product. Because they are responsible for ensuring that their products are safe for use and free from defects that can harm users, injured victims can hold them liable in a lawsuit. In order to file a lawsuit for an auto defect-related accident, it is important to have a skilled attorney who can investigate the case and determine who is liable for the damages. A qualified attorney can help victims seek compensation for damages caused by the car accident.

Damages Recoverable in Auto Defect Car Accident Lawsuits

Victims who have been injured in a car accident caused by a defective auto part may be able to recover a range of damages in a personal injury lawsuit. Depending on the severity of the accident and the extent of the injuries suffered, damages may can include:

  • Medical expenses such as hospital bills
  • Rehabilitation costs
  • Costs of ongoing medical treatment
  • Lost income or earning capacity, both present and future
  • Pain and suffering, including physical and emotional pain, loss of enjoyment of life, and mental anguish

In cases where a victim’s injuries are particularly severe, punitive damages may also be available, which are intended to punish the negligent party and to prevent similar behavior in the future. Working with an experienced attorney can help injury victims determine what compensation they may be eligible to recover and can assist with pursuing both economic and non-economic damages.