Defective Parts and Recalls

Defective Parts and Recalls

Many vehicles issue recall notices every year because of defective parts. Unfortunately, not everyone heeds these warnings. In addition, many other parts may not be part of a recall notice even if they are found to carry a higher risk of an accident. Drivers who have been injured due to a defective automotive part may suffer long-term and serious injuries.

In 1966, the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act was enacted, which allowed the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration from the Department of Transportation to issue safety standards for vehicles. Because of this act, manufacturers are required to recall vehicles that contain any defects related to safety.

You’ll often hear about recalls on television or through the Internet, and you may even have received a notice in the mail for your own vehicle. Many different components on your vehicle can be defective, which place a safety risk on you and your passengers. Some of these components include the following:

  • Fuel systems – increase the risk of fire in a collision
  • Steering system – cause loss of control or inability to steer
  • Tires – may blow out
  • Wheels – may crack or break, inhibiting control of the vehicle
  • Wiring systems – cause fire or shut down lighting or other systems
  • Accelerator controls – may get stuck in one position with inability to stop vehicle

You may also receive notice of recalls on airbags, brakes or other components which could increase the risk of accident or severity of injury in a collision.

A car part is considered defective because of either a design defect or a manufacturing defect. With a design defect, the part can have a high level of risk for injury even when used correctly. In other situations, the part may be assembled or built poorly and not according to the designer’s instructions, which results in a manufacturing defect.

To prove your case in a personal injury claim due to a defective part, you will have to prove that the part was indeed defective and that the defect was the cause of the accident or injury. You’ll also have to prove that you suffered a loss because of the defect. This loss may be physical, emotional or even financial.

It’s important to hire an attorney experienced in dealing with defective automotive parts for your claim. They will understand the challenges that are presented in proving your case, and they will fight for your rights. Contact us today if you have been injured in a vehicle accident because of a defective part.


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