Corpus Christi Car Defect Lawyers

Vehicle manufacturers and sellers have a responsibility to construct and market safe, reliable, and efficient motor vehicles for their consumers. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) issues regulations regarding vehicle safety which most manufacturers and dealerships must follow. When they fail to meet the federal standards imposed on them for the safety of drivers globally, the parties responsible should be held accountable for their actions. If you believe you have been injured due to a defect or malfunction in your vehicle, we can help.

We are committed to holding manufacturers and dealers responsible for the safety of our whole community. When unsafe cars are on the road, we are all at risk.

The car accident attorney at Brunkenhoefer, P.C. Injury Law is not afraid to stand up to big companies to win your case, and our track record of recovering millions for our clients is incomparable. It’s important to reach out as soon as possible to understand state and federal regulations that could aid you in claiming compensation post-accident. Our team has the working knowledge of current recalls and regulations so that you have nothing but the best on your side.

Call us at (361) 310-5299 or chat with us live on our website for a free consultation today.

Common Vehicle Defects That Cause Accidents

Vehicles are complex machines made up of many parts that must function correctly to keep drivers safe. Unfortunately, defects can occur in any part of the car, putting everyone on the road at risk. Here are some common vehicle defects that can lead to accidents:

• Faulty Airbags: Airbags are designed to deploy in the event of a crash to protect passengers. A defect in the airbag system, like improper deployment or failure to deploy, can increase the severity of injuries during a crash.
• Brake Failures: A malfunctioning brake system is one of the most dangerous defects. Whether it’s due to defective brake pads, faulty hydraulic systems, or a malfunctioning master cylinder, brake failure can result in the driver being unable to stop in time, leading to accidents.
• Tire Blowouts: A tire blowout is when a tire unexpectedly bursts while driving, often causing the driver to lose control of the vehicle. Defective tires with poor tread, or those that are prone to cracking or puncturing, can easily cause this dangerous situation.
• Power Steering Issues: Power steering systems help drivers control the vehicle with minimal effort. If the system fails, it becomes much harder to steer, especially at higher speeds, increasing the risk of accidents.

How Car Defects Lead to Accidents

Car defects affect the vehicle’s ability to function as designed. Here’s how these defects can lead to accidents:

• Loss of Control: Defective brakes, tires, or power steering can cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle, especially in emergency situations.
• Delayed Response: Faulty airbags or seatbelts may fail to protect occupants in a crash, or delay in deployment can increase injury severity.
• Increased Impact: A defect in the vehicle’s safety features can lead to a stronger collision impact, making injuries more likely or severe.

Legal Process for Vehicle Defect Claims

If you've been injured due to a vehicle defect, here’s the process for filing a claim:

• Investigation: The first step is identifying and investigating the defect, usually with the help of experts in vehicle safety.
• Gathering Evidence: Collecting all relevant evidence, such as accident reports, photos, witness statements, and any recalls related to the defect.
• Consulting Experts: In many cases, expert testimony from automotive engineers or accident reconstruction specialists is needed to demonstrate how the defect caused the accident.
• Filing the Claim: Once all evidence is collected, a formal claim is filed against the manufacturer, dealership, or other liable parties.

The Role of Recalls in Vehicle Defect Cases

A vehicle recall occurs when a manufacturer discovers a defect that could potentially cause harm, and they notify owners of the vehicles affected. Here’s how recalls play a role in defect cases:

• Evidence: If the vehicle involved in your accident was subject to a recall and the manufacturer failed to fix the issue, it can serve as strong evidence that they were negligent.
• Legal Consequences: Manufacturers are legally required to address defects identified in recalls. If they fail to act on known defects and a driver is harmed, they can face serious legal consequences, including compensatory and punitive damages.

In summary, car defects can lead to serious accidents, but understanding the common defects, how they cause accidents, and the legal process for seeking compensation can help you protect your rights and hold manufacturers accountable.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Vehicle Defect Claims

• What is a vehicle defect claim? A vehicle defect claim is a legal case where a person seeks compensation for injuries caused by a defect in a vehicle. This can include issues like faulty brakes, airbags, tires, or power steering. The claim is typically filed against the manufacturer, dealership, or other parties responsible for the defect.
• How can I tell if my car has a defect? Some vehicle defects are apparent, such as a malfunctioning brake system or an airbag failure during a crash. Other defects may be discovered through recalls, accident investigations, or through an experienced attorney’s review of your vehicle’s history. If you notice anything unusual with your vehicle, it’s important to have it inspected.
• Can I file a claim if my car is still under warranty? Yes, even if your car is under warranty, you may still file a claim if the vehicle defect is related to faulty parts or manufacturing errors. The warranty does not eliminate your right to pursue legal action against a manufacturer or dealer for injuries caused by a defect.
• What do I need to prove to win a vehicle defect case? To win a vehicle defect case, you must prove that a defect in the vehicle directly caused your accident and resulting injuries. This usually involves collecting evidence, such as accident reports, vehicle maintenance records, expert testimony, and any information about recalls related to the vehicle.
• How long do I have to file a claim for a vehicle defect? The time limit for filing a vehicle defect claim is governed by the statute of limitations, which varies by state. In Texas, you generally have two years from the date of the accident or injury to file a claim. It’s important to contact an attorney as soon as possible to ensure your case is filed within the deadline.

Do I Need a Personal Injury Law After the Discovery of a Car Defect or Malfunction?

Understanding state and federal regulations can be challenging, so having an experienced attorney on your team is essential if you have a vehicle defect claim. We firmly believe that carmakers have a responsibility to manufacture, test, and sell vehicles that are safe for consumers to drive. If a defect causes a severe car accident and someone is hurt or killed as a result, they should be held accountable. We have experience helping injured people across Texas, and we are ready to help you with your claim. 

Call us at (361) 310-5299 or chat with us live on our website for a free consultation today.