Defective Auto Parts and Recalls

Motor vehicle accidents can have devastating consequences, often leading to severe injuries, financial burdens, and emotional trauma. While many accidents are caused by driver error, road conditions, or weather, a significant number result from defective auto parts. When a car part fails, it can lead to catastrophic accidents, making it important to understand your rights and legal options.

Understanding defective auto parts

Defective auto parts are faulty components of a vehicle due to design flaws, manufacturing errors, or inadequate warnings about their use. When these parts fail, they can compromise the safety of a vehicle, leading to accidents that would have otherwise been avoidable. Some of the most common defective auto parts that have been known to cause car accidents include:

• Brakes: Faulty brakes can prevent a vehicle from stopping in time, leading to rear-end collisions or other types of crashes.
• Tires: Defective tires may blow out, lose tread, or fail to grip the road properly, causing loss of control.
• Airbags: Airbags that fail to deploy during a crash or deploy unexpectedly can lead to severe injuries or fatalities.
• Steering systems: A malfunction in the steering system can result in the driver losing control of the vehicle.
• Seatbelts: Defective seatbelts may fail to restrain passengers properly, increasing the risk of injury during an accident.
• Accelerator pedals: Stuck or faulty accelerator pedals can cause unintended acceleration, leading to high-speed crashes.
• Fuel systems: Defects in the fuel system can lead to leaks or fires, posing a significant risk during an accident.

When any of these parts fail, the results can be catastrophic. For example, a brake defect may cause a vehicle to rear-end another car at a stoplight, leading to a multi-vehicle pileup. In such cases, the driver of the defective vehicle may not be at fault, as a malfunctioning component directly caused the accident.

Who can be sued for a defective auto part?

Determining liability in a case involving defective auto parts can be complex. Depending on the circumstances surrounding the defect and the accident, several parties may be held responsible. These parties can include:

• The manufacturer: The most common defendant in defective auto parts cases is the vehicle manufacturer or the specific part. Manufacturers are responsible for ensuring that their products are safe for consumer use. If a defect in the design or manufacturing process leads to an accident, the manufacturer can be held liable under product liability This liability extends to both the company that assembled the vehicle and the company that produced the defective component.
• The distributor or retailer: In some cases, the distributor or retailer that sold the vehicle or part can also be held liable. This is particularly important if the defect occurs after the part has left the manufacturer but before it reaches the consumer. For example, improper storage or handling by the retailer could contribute to the failure of the part.
• The mechanic or repair shop: If a defect is caused by improper installation or repair of a vehicle part, the mechanic or repair shop responsible for the work may be liable. For instance, if a mechanic fails to install brakes correctly, leading to a serious accident, they could be held responsible for any resulting injuries and damages.
• Third-party parts manufacturers: Sometimes, vehicles are equipped with parts made by third-party companies rather than the original manufacturer. If a defect in one of these aftermarket parts leads to an accident, the third-party manufacturer can be held accountable.

Our Minot car accident attorneys investigate the origin of the defect and identify all potential defendants. This can involve working with automotive experts, reviewing maintenance records, and examining the vehicle to determine how and why the part failed.

What if there is an active recall for my car?

Recalls are issued when a manufacturer or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) determines that a vehicle or its components pose a safety risk. If there is an active recall on your vehicle, the manufacturer has acknowledged the defect and is offering to repair or replace the faulty part at no cost to you.

However, an active recall does not absolve the manufacturer of liability if the defect causes an accident before the issue is addressed. Here’s what you need to know if your vehicle is under recall:

• Responsibility to respond to recalls: As a vehicle owner, you are responsible for responding to recall notices and taking your car in for the necessary repairs. Failure to do so could affect your ability to recover damages if the defect leads to an accident. Insurance companies and defense attorneys may argue that you were negligent in not addressing the known defect.
• Manufacturer liability: Even if there is an active recall, the manufacturer can still be held liable if the defect causes an accident before you can address it. For example, you receive a recall notice about a faulty steering system but are involved in a crash before you can bring the car in for repairs. The manufacturer may still be responsible for the damages.
• Recalls and insurance claims: If you are involved in an accident due to a defective part that is under recall, your insurance claim may be affected. It’s essential to inform your insurance company about the recall and any steps you took to address it. In some cases, your insurer may seek reimbursement from the manufacturer for the costs associated with the accident.
• Legal recourse: If you’ve been injured in an accident caused by a recalled part, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. Our Minot car accident attorneys can help you navigate the complexities of such a case, including dealing with the recall, identifying liable parties, and pursuing a product liability claim.

Compensation for defective auto parts accidents

Victims of accidents caused by defective auto parts can seek compensation for their losses. However, pursuing a claim can be challenging, especially when multiple parties are involved or there is an active recall. The Minot car accident attorneys at Larson Law Injury & Accident Lawyers can help. Here are some steps to take if you’ve been involved in such an accident:

• Seek medical attention: Your health and safety should be your top priority. Even if you don’t feel seriously injured, seeing a doctor to rule out any hidden injuries is important.
• Preserve evidence: Keep all records related to the accident, including police reports, medical bills, and correspondence with your insurance company. If possible, take photos of the accident scene, your vehicle, and any visible injuries.
• Check for recalls: Determine if there is an active recall on your vehicle or any of its parts. You can do this by visiting the NHTSA website or contacting your vehicle manufacturer.
• Consult with an attorney: Our Minot car accident attorneys can help you understand your legal rights and options. We can assist with gathering evidence, identifying liable parties, and negotiating with insurance companies or the manufacturer.
• File a claim: Depending on the circumstances, you may file a product liability claim against the manufacturer, distributor, or other responsible parties. Your attorney can guide you through this process and advocate on your behalf.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motor vehicle accident caused by a defective auto part, don’t try to deal with the process alone. Contact the experienced Minot car accident attorneys at Larson Law Injury & Accident Lawyers today for a free consultation. We’re here to help you hold the responsible parties accountable and secure the compensation you deserve. Your road to recovery starts with the right legal support—reach out to us now. Please call our offices or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation in Fargo, Minot, or Bismarck.