No one sits behind the wheel of a car or truck and expects it to malfunction. However, motorists can incur injuries from defective vehicle parts. Is it possible to file a personal injury lawsuit if you’re hurt due to automotive defects or a defective part?
Our team at Stewart & Stewart Attorneys handles a wide range of personal injury claims, including product liability cases. Below, we break down what you should know about car recall injuries and your legal options.
Defective Auto Parts Can Impact Motorists, Passengers, and Pedestrians
When a vehicle has a poorly designed or malfunctioning part, it can risk the health and safety of multiple people who may be affected by the same defective product. Even a component that doesn’t seem inherently dangerous could pose serious hazards if it suddenly becomes defective.
For example, imagine turning on your windshield wipers during light rain. If the wiper blade comes flying out of place, it could strike pedestrians, bicyclists, or others on the road.
What if the steering wheel isn’t secure and pops out, causing a crash? You won’t be able to navigate your car and therefore put yourself, your passengers, and other motorists in harm’s way during a crash.
These are just some of the possible scenarios that drivers could face when dealing with vehicle defects. It is incumbent upon vehicle manufacturers to create safe products and address any concerns promptly with a recall of any defective product.
Common Injuries From Defective Vehicle Parts
According to the statute of limitations, there may be a time limit to file a lawsuit for an auto accident. National Safety Council, car accidents cause 5.1 million medically consulted injuries each year. What kinds of injuries could someone face because of an unsafe auto part?
The extent of one’s injuries depends on the defect and its role in causing or worsening an accident. Take a closer look at some potential injuries victims may sustain.
- Head trauma: Imagine being in a car accident and the airbag doesn’t inflate as it should. Without this standard precaution, you could hit your head on the steering wheel or dashboard, causing a serious brain injury.
- Severe burns: Fuel system problems could cause dangerous fluids to leak, raising the risk of combustion. Burn injuries from defective vehicle parts could ensue.
- Spinal cord damage can occur in severe auto accidents caused by defective parts.: Damage to the spinal cord could lead to paralysis or other long-term disabilities. Faulty seat belts or other protective gear may cause these types of injuries during car accidents.
- Amputations can be a tragic outcome of accidents involving defective vehicle parts.: Some victims lose limbs due to malfunctioning auto parts. They may be able to sue the manufacturer for their pain and suffering.
Other possible injuries from defective vehicle parts include fractured bones and lacerations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Learn more about vehicle malfunction injuries and the possible legal consequences for manufacturers.
How Can You Prove Manufacturer Negligence in a Product Liability Case?
Evidence that may help prove a case in an accident case includes documentation of defective products. Manufacturer’s negligence includes ignored reports of safety concerns and testimony from industry professionals.
What Damages Can a Victim Claim?
Victims may be able to pursue economic, non-economic, and punitive damages in their accident case. Any awarded compensation could go toward their medical expenses, lost wages, and more in relation to the defective part that caused the accident.
What Does It Cost To Hire a Personal Injury Attorney?
It usually doesn’t cost anything up front to hire a personal injury lawyer. Many operate on a contingency fee basis, collecting fees only if their clients receive compensation through a settlement or civil trial related to their auto accident.
Consult a Personal Injury Lawyer About Your Product Liability Case
Are you currently suffering from any injuries from defective vehicle parts? Stewart & Stewart Attorneys may be able to help you. We represent injured clients who wish to take action against a negligent party responsible for vehicle defects.
Contact our team if you’re hoping to pursue a personal injury lawsuit. Give us a call at (317) 537-9616 to request a free consultation.