What Happens If Your Auto Accident Was The Result Of A Defect?
Brian O Sutter
Recalls
When an auto manufacturer or the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) discovers that a manufactured part or engineering design creates an unreasonable safety risk or fails to meet the minimum safety standards they typically issue a recall. However, there are some serious issues when it comes to recalls. First, in the state of Florida, the owner must register the product in order to receive a recall notice. There are many people on Florida’s roads driving vehicles and are unaware they are on a recall list. Secondly, manufacturers may hide the fact there is a defect to save money and protect their brand. Finally, they may not always know there is a defect until there are several devastating accidentsAuto Recalls So Far This Year
Since January 2019 alone, 37 million Ford products were recalled due to issues with faulty airbags. Fiat Chrysler had to recall 862,520 vehicles that do not meet US emissions standards. Meanwhile, Honda and Kia are recalling 168,000 cars with problems that can lead to engine fires. To make matters worse, according to a recent study by the Wall Street Journal, less than two thirds recalled cars are repaired within 18 months. This increases the chances of you either driving a defective vehicle you are unaware of, or will be hit by a car that is on the recall list, resulting in severe problems and damages, not to mention serious injuries requiring extensive medical treatment.
Recalled Auto Caused Accidents
Auto accidents are traumatic. They can result in damaged property, acute and chronic injuries, or even death. Imagine how devastating it is when you find out the accident was caused by a defective vehicle and could have been avoided. Recall related accidents come in different categories. They include:
● Manufacturing Defects: This is when the vehicle not made or produced safely during its manufacture
● Design Defects: Sadly these are the ones that cause the majority of severe accidents. This is when there is a flaw in the mechanics or design of the automobile.
● Dealership Negligence: This is when there has been a mishandling of the vehicle at the car dealership.
Depending on your accident and what the defect is, you can file a suit against the dealership, the parts manufacturer, or the car company. An attorney can help you determine who was at fault for the accident.
I Think My Accident Was Due To A Defective Vehicle
If you suspect that your accident was caused due to a defective part there are some things you need to do. If the accident has you disabled ask a friend or family member to help. Here’s how you can protect your rights:
● Make sure you have photos of all damaged cars, the intersection or the road from all directions and any injuries you have.
● Keep all evidence from the accident that can support your claim.
● Do not get your car repaired until you have spoken with your attorney. Your attorney and his experts will need the damaged car to inspect for evidence.
● If possible obtain all auto paperwork including the police report, medical records.
● The dealership may also be liable so you need to consult with your legal team.
● Keep all medical records.
These will help your attorney prove that your accident was the result of a defect. Proving defects is very challenging, so it’s important that you follow these steps.
At All Injuries Law Firm, we have over 30 years of experience dealing with auto accidents in the Port Charlotte-Fort Myers area. We know the difference between an accident that is the fault of a driver and an accident that is the fault of a defect. Our team of expert investigators can help you prove your claim and fight to get you compensation for all your damages. Give us a call at 941-625-HURT to learn more about how we can support your fight for fair compensation!