Vehicle Manufacturing Defects That Lead to Car Accidents
Most people think of vehicle accidents occurring as a result of driver negligence, but sometimes, collisions happen because of a faulty vehicle, faulty vehicle parts, or mistakes made during the manufacturing process. These accidents aren’t as common as incidents caused by driver negligence, but they do have it, and victims who sustain injuries and property damage deserve compensation.
Manufacturing defects can occur at various stages of the vehicle production process, from the initial design phase to the assembly line. Some defects are related to specific vehicle components, while others involve flaws in the overall design of the car. The following are some of the most common types of defects that can lead to car accidents:
Defective Brakes
Brakes are obviously important, as one of the most crucial safety features in any vehicle, and when they fail, the consequences can be catastrophic. Defective brake systems can prevent a driver from slowing down or stopping in time to avoid a collision. Common brake defects include:
- Brake pads that wear out too quickly
- Brake fluid leaks that cause pressure loss
- Anti-lock brake system (ABS) failures
In any of these scenarios, a driver could lose control of their car, increasing the likelihood of a serious accident.
Airbag Malfunctions
Airbags are designed to protect vehicle occupants during a crash by rapidly inflating upon impact, but defective airbags can either fail to deploy or deploy too forcefully, causing more harm than good. Some airbag defects that have been linked to accidents and injuries include:
- Failure to deploy during a collision
- Unintended deployment while driving
- Airbags deploying with excessive force, causing injury to the driver or passengers
The Takata airbag recall, one of the largest vehicle recalls in history, involved airbags that could explode and send metal pieces of shrapnel flying into the cabin. This defect caused numerous injuries and deaths, highlighting the dangers of malfunctioning airbags.
Faulty Steering Mechanisms
A vehicle’s steering system is responsible for allowing the driver to control the direction of the car. If the steering mechanism is defective, it can cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle, leading to an accident. Common steering defects include:
- Power steering failure
- Steering wheel lock-up
- Loose or broken steering components
Tire Defects
Tires are the only part of a vehicle that makes direct contact with the road, so their safety and reliability are paramount. Defective tires can cause blowouts, tread separation, or loss of traction, all of which can lead to dangerous accidents. Some of the most common tire defects include:
- Poorly designed or manufactured tires that are prone to blowouts
- Tread separation caused by faulty materials or manufacturing processes
- Defective tire pressure sensors that fail to alert drivers when tires are underinflated
Seatbelt Failures
Seatbelts are a critical safety feature, but they can fail in several ways, increasing the risk of serious injury or death in the event of an accident. Some common seatbelt defects include:
- Seatbelts that fail to latch properly
- Seatbelts that unlatch unexpectedly during a crash
- Seatbelt webbing that tears or breaks upon impact
When seatbelts fail, passengers are left unprotected during a collision, significantly increasing the likelihood of severe injuries.
Liability in Seattle Vehicle Manufacturing Defect Cases
When a vehicle manufacturing defect leads to an accident, determining liability can be complex. In many cases, the vehicle manufacturer or part supplier is held responsible for producing a defective product. However, other parties may also share liability, including:
- Automobile dealerships. If a dealership sold a vehicle that had known defects or failed to issue recalls in a timely manner, they may be held partially responsible.
- Part manufacturers. If the defect was caused by a specific part (e.g., tires, airbags, or brakes), the part manufacturer may be held liable.
- Mechanics or repair shops. In some cases, a certified repair shop or mechanic that failed to properly maintain or repair the vehicle could share responsibility for the accident.
How to Pursue Compensation for a Vehicle Defect Accident in Seattle
If you have been injured in an accident caused by a vehicle defect, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Here are the steps you should take to pursue a claim recommended by a Seattle car accident lawyer:
- Seek medical attention. After an accident, your health and safety should be the top priority. Even if you do not feel seriously injured, it is important to get checked by a medical professional. Some injuries may not show symptoms right away but can become more serious if left untreated.
- Document the scene. If possible, take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and the vehicle damage. This evidence will be crucial for proving that a defect caused the crash.
- Preserve the vehicle. Do not have your vehicle repaired or dispose of it until it has been inspected by a qualified expert. The condition of the vehicle is a key piece of evidence in a manufacturing defect case.
- Contact an attorney. A skilled product liability attorney will investigate the accident, gather evidence, and work with experts to determine the cause of the crash. Your attorney will also handle negotiations with insurance companies and, if necessary, file a lawsuit on your behalf.
- File a claim. Depending on the circumstances, you may file a claim against the vehicle manufacturer, part supplier, or other liable parties. Your attorney will guide you through this process and fight to secure the compensation you deserve.