Car accidents can happen for a variety of reasons, including driver negligence and hazardous road conditions. When an accident is caused by a defective auto part, the situation can become more complicated. It is important to understand how defective auto parts contribute to accidents, who may be held responsible, and what legal options may be available.
How Can Defective Auto Parts Cause an Accident?
A vehicle relies on many interconnected systems to operate safely. When a critical component malfunctions, the driver may lose control, leading to a crash.
- A faulty brake system may prevent a car from stopping in time
- A defective steering mechanism can cause unintended movements
- Airbags that fail to deploy or deploy unexpectedly can lead to severe injuries
- Tire defects, including tread separation or blowouts, can make it impossible to control a vehicle
- Electrical malfunctions may cause sudden power loss, affecting acceleration or lighting systems
Who Can Be Held Liable for an Accident Caused by a Defective Auto Part?
Liability for an accident caused by a defective part may involve multiple parties.
- The manufacturer of the vehicle or specific defective component could be responsible if a design or production flaw contributed to the malfunction.
- An auto parts supplier may also be liable if a defective component was distributed without proper testing.
- A dealership or repair shop could be responsible if they installed a faulty part or failed to detect a defect during maintenance.
- In some cases, liability may extend to a third party that improperly modified a vehicle in a way that led to the component failure.
How Can a Defective Auto Part Be Proven as the Cause of a Crash?
Detailed evidence is needed when trying to prove that a defective auto part caused an accident. A thorough investigation may include an examination of the vehicle, analysis of maintenance records, and review of any recall notices related to the component. Expert testimony from engineers or automotive specialists may be necessary to demonstrate how the defect led to the crash. Accident reconstruction may also help establish a connection between the malfunction and the resulting collision. If a recall was issued for the defective part, that information could further support a claim.
Are There Laws That Protect Consumers from Defective Auto Parts?
Several laws regulate vehicle safety and protect consumers from defective parts. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) oversees vehicle recalls and sets safety standards for automobile manufacturers. So, if a manufacturer becomes aware of a defect, it is required to issue a recall and provide a remedy, such as a free repair or replacement. Product liability laws also allow individuals to seek compensation if they are harmed by a defective component. Depending on the circumstances, a claim may be based on a manufacturing defect, a design flaw, or a failure to provide adequate warnings about potential risks.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim for a Defective Auto Part Accident?
The timeframe to file a claim depends on state laws, as each jurisdiction has a statute of limitations for product liability and personal injury cases. In Pennsylvania, there is generally a two-year statute of limitations for initiating personal injury lawsuits. If a recall was issued after the accident, it may impact the timeline for legal action. We recommend consulting with our Delaware County legal team as soon as possible to determine the appropriate steps to take within the required timeframe.
Our Delaware County Car Accident Lawyers at Eckell Sparks Are Experienced with Defective Auto Part Crash Cases and Can Help You Get the Compensation You Deserve
Accidents caused by defective auto parts can be legally complex and require focused investigation. The skilled Delaware County car accident lawyers at Eckell, Sparks, Levy, Auerbach, Monte, Sloane, Matthews & Auslander, P.C. can provide guidance and fight to protect your rights. To schedule an initial consultation, call our Media and West Chester, Pennsylvania, offices at 610-565-3701 or fill out our online form. We proudly serve clients in Delaware County, Chester County, and Montgomery County.