Car accidents are a frightening reality for drivers everywhere. While driver error is often a contributing factor, there are times when a malfunctioning or defective car part causes a seemingly unavoidable collision.
Understanding product liability and common auto defects is crucial if you’ve been involved in an accident and suspect a defect may be to blame.
Product liability and your rights
Product liability law holds manufacturers accountable for placing unsafe products in the hands of consumers. When a car part is defective by design or manufacturing or fails to meet safety standards, this defect causes an accident with injuries. In this case, the manufacturer could be liable for damages. This can include medical expenses, lost wages and pain and suffering.
Common auto defects that can cause accidents
Several car parts are susceptible to defects that can lead to serious accidents. Faulty brakes are a major safety hazard. This could include a malfunctioning anti-lock braking system (ABS), leaking brake fluid or defective brake pads or rotors. These issues can significantly increase stopping distances and lead to rear-end collisions or an inability to avoid obstacles.
Loss of steering control is terrifying and can cause the car to veer off the road or into oncoming traffic. Steering defects can involve problems with the power steering system, loose components or a faulty steering column.
Airbags are designed to deploy in a collision and cushion occupants on impact. However, defective airbags may fail to deploy at all, deploy with too much force or even explode and cause airbag deployment injuries.
Tire blowouts can happen for various reasons, but a tire manufacturing defect can significantly increase the risk. Tread separation, sidewall defects or faulty valves can all lead to sudden loss of pressure and control of the vehicle.
Unintended acceleration is a serious issue where the car speeds up uncontrollably, making it difficult to slow down or stop. This can be caused by a mechanical defect in the accelerator pedal or a faulty electronic connection.
A faulty ignition switch can cause the engine to stall unexpectedly, leaving the driver without power steering or brakes in dangerous situations.
If you’ve been injured in an accident caused by a defective car part, there are resources available to help you seek compensation for your damages and hold the manufacturer accountable. Don’t forget to seek immediate medical evaluation to begin your recovery as soon as possible.