What if My Car Accident Was Caused by a Car Defect?

While driver error and negligence account for the majority of car accidents, vehicle defects can also play significant roles or make them more severe. That is why this angle should be investigated in car accident claims. Otherwise, you might not receive the full compensation you are entitled to.

What Types of Car Defects Cause Accidents?

Vehicle defects that cause accidents fall into several categories. Brake system failures prevent drivers from stopping properly, while steering system malfunctions make controlling the vehicle difficult or impossible. Tire blowouts and defects can lead to sudden loss of control, especially at high speeds. Acceleration problems—including unintended acceleration—have also been implicated in numerous accidents; electrical system failures can affect multiple vehicle systems simultaneously.

Safety features that malfunction present another serious hazard. Examples include airbags that deploy improperly or fail to deploy and seatbelts that unlatch during impact. When fuel systems leak or catch fire after minor impacts, survivable accidents can turn into catastrophic ones.

How Do I Know if a Defect Caused My Accident?

Preserving the vehicle in its post-accident condition is vital, as repairs may eliminate evidence of defects. Also, look for recall notices related to your vehicle model, as they can provide valuable information about known issues.

Other information sources for automobile defects include:

• An independent mechanical inspection can reveal defects that might not be obvious.
• Accident reconstruction specialists can analyze the sequence of events and identify factors inconsistent with typical accident patterns.
• Vehicle data recorders (similar to aircraft “black boxes”) in newer vehicles may contain critical information about system performance immediately before and during the crash.

Who Is Liable When a Defect Causes an Accident?

Product liability for defect-related accidents may extend to multiple parties. The vehicle manufacturer bears responsibility for design flaws, production errors, and inadequate safety testing. Parts manufacturers may also be liable if they supplied defective components. Lastly, dealerships or automotive repair shops could share responsibility if they failed to address known issues or performed improper repairs.

The legal theory of “strict liability” often applies in defect cases. This means manufacturers can be held responsible regardless of whether they were negligent if their product was unreasonably dangerous when used as intended.

How Does a Product Liability Claim Differ From a Regular Accident Claim?

Product liability claims involve different legal standards than typical accident claims. While regular accident claims focus on driver negligence, product liability cases examine the design, manufacturing, and marketing of the vehicle or component.

Documentation requirements differ significantly in these cases. Product liability claims often require extensive technical evidence about design standards, manufacturing processes, and industry safety practices. These cases may involve numerous expert witnesses, including engineers, safety specialists, and industry professionals who can testify about proper manufacturing standards.

Additionally, product liability cases frequently involve larger corporate defendants with substantial legal resources, making professional legal representation particularly important.

How Should I Document a Potential Defect-Related Accident?

Documentation begins at the accident scene. Photograph the vehicle from multiple angles, focusing on damaged areas and any parts that may have malfunctioned. Collect witness statements, particularly from anyone who observed the vehicle’s behavior before the crash.

Save all maintenance records, which can demonstrate that the vehicle was properly maintained. Preserve any communication with the manufacturer or dealership about problems with the vehicle before the accident. Finally, keep all medical records related to your injuries, as these will help establish the connection between the defect and your damages.

South Bend Car Accident Lawyers at Wilson & Kinsman, LLC Skillfully Represent Clients in Car Defect Cases

If you suspect a vehicle defect played a role in your accident, the dedicated South Bend car accident lawyers at Wilson & Kinsman, LLC have extensive experience holding manufacturers accountable for dangerous products and can fight for the compensation you deserve. Call 574-522-1900, book online now, or submit a form for your free consultation. Located in Elkhart and South Bend, Indiana, we proudly serve clients in St. Joseph County and throughout the state.