Product Liability Claims Involving Defective Motor Vehicle Parts

The vast majority of car accidents are caused by negligent driving such as speeding, driving while intoxicated, or simply not paying attention to the road. In fact, an estimated 94 percent of crashes are caused by human error. However, sometimes a car accident can be caused by a defect in one of the vehicle's components. In these cases, it may be possible for an injured party to take legal action against the designer, manufacturer, or distributor of the defective part in order to recover damages.

Basics of Product Liability Claims

Companies that design, build, and sell consumer products are held to certain quality standards. If a defective product such as a defective steering mechanism or defective brake system causes a crash, the party or parties responsible for the defect may be required to pay damages to the crash victims.

It can be extremely difficult to prove that a defective vehicle component caused an accident. It is important to have a qualified attorney review the facts of the case and determine whether filing a product liability claim is appropriate.

Types of Vehicle Defects That Can Lead to Product Liability Claims

There are many types of defects that can lead to vehicle accidents, including faulty brakes, tires, steering mechanisms, accelerators, and airbags. Defects in these parts can cause or contribute to the severity of a car accident. Sometimes, a defect is present in the initial design of a vehicle component. For example, in 2014, General Motors recalled more than 2 million vehicles because of defective ignition switches that caused vehicles to shut off while in motion. Manufacturing defects are caused by mistakes during the construction or assembly of a vehicle or vehicle component. 

Statute of Limitations for Texas Product Liability Claims

In Texas, the statute of limitations for product liability claims is two years from the date the injury was discovered or should have been discovered. It is important to keep track of this time limit and be aware that some circumstances may extend the time period for filing a claim.

Possible Damages in a Product Liability Claim

The damages in a product liability claim will depend on the specific facts of the case, but they may include medical expenses, lost wages and earnings capacity, pain and suffering, mental anguish, disfigurement, property damage, and even punitive damages. An experienced attorney can help you understand your legal options and determine which types of damages may be available in your case.

Contact Our Corpus Christi Product Liability Lawyer

If you or a loved one were injured in a car crash, contact our Nueces County personal injury attorneys for help identifying the cause of the crash and pursuing financial compensation. Call 361-320-6752 for a free consultation.

Sources:

https://www.taproot.com/is-human-error-the-cause-of-vehicle-accidents

https://auto.howstuffworks.com/under-the-hood/auto-manufacturing/10-vehicle-manufacturing-defects.htm