When Can Defective Auto Parts Lead to Car Accidents and Injuries?

Car accidents can occur for various reasons, but some of the most alarming cases involve defective auto parts. When a critical component in a vehicle malfunctions, a driver may lose control, or the failure of safety systems may lead to serious injuries in a collision. In many cases, these defects occur due to negligence on the part of auto manufacturers or parts suppliers. People who believe that accidents or injuries were caused by defective auto parts can work with an experienced attorney to hold negligent manufacturers or other parties responsible for the damages they have suffered.

Common Types of Defective Vehicle Parts

There are several types of components that can cause a driver to lose control or cause a person to suffer injuries when malfunctions occur. Some of the most common parts that may be prone to defects include:

Brakes: The braking system is one of the most critical safety components in any vehicle. If brakes are defective, they may fail to engage when needed, causing a driver to be unable to stop or slow down in time to avoid a collision. Brake failures can result from issues such as defective brake pads or rotors, faulty anti-lock braking system (ABS) components, or malfunctioning brake lines.
Tires: A vehicle’s tires are essential for maintaining traction and stability on the road. Defective tires can blow out unexpectedly, causing the driver to lose control of the vehicle. Common tire defects include tread separation, sidewall failure, and manufacturing defects that weaken a tire’s structure.
Airbags: These critical safety systems are designed to protect drivers and passengers during collisions. However, if they are defective, they may deploy at the wrong time, fail to deploy altogether, or explode and cause additional injuries. Airbag defects may involve faulty sensors, improper installation, or defective inflators that cause the airbag to explode rather than deploy properly.
Steering Systems: A vehicle's steering system is crucial for maintaining control, especially at high speeds. Defective steering components can significantly increase the risks of a car wreck due to a driver’s inability to navigate around obstacles or control their vehicle when negotiating curves. Issues with steering systems may include faulty power steering pumps or hoses, defective steering columns, or the failure of electronic steering components.
Seat belts: Safety belts are a primary line of defense in protecting a vehicle’s occupants during an accident. If a seat belt is defective, it may fail to restrain a person, leading to more severe injuries. Seat belt defects may include latch failures, inadequate strength of straps or webbing, or retractor defects.
Electrical Systems: Modern vehicles rely heavily on complex electrical components to operate everything from engines to safety features. Electrical system defects can cause various issues, including engine stalls or fires, malfunctioning safety systems, or unexpected vehicle shutdowns.

Holding Manufacturers Accountable for Defective Parts

When defective auto parts cause accidents and injuries, the manufacturers, distributors, or other parties involved in the supply chain may be held liable. Victims of these accidents may have several legal options available to recover compensation for their damages.

Product Liability Claims: Texas laws allow injured parties to file claims against manufacturers or sellers of defective products. To succeed in a product liability claim, the injured person must prove that the defect existed at the time the product left the manufacturer's control, the defect made the product unreasonably dangerous, and the defect caused their injuries.
Negligence Claims: In some cases, injured parties may file a negligence claim against a manufacturer or seller if they can prove that the party failed to exercise reasonable care in the design, manufacturing, marketing, or installation of the product. In some cases, an injury victim may be able to demonstrate negligence on the part of a mechanic or other party that performed repair services and show that parts were installed incorrectly or the proper steps were not taken to ensure a vehicle’s safety. Negligence claims require proving that the defendant had a duty to the plaintiff, breached that duty, and caused damages as a result.
Class Action Lawsuits: If a defective auto part has caused harm to many people, a class action lawsuit may be appropriate. This allows multiple victims to join together in one lawsuit against the manufacturer, potentially leading to a larger settlement or judgment.

Steps to Take After a Defective Auto Part Accident

If you have been injured in an accident caused by a defective auto part, it is essential to take specific steps to protect your rights and build a strong case for recovering compensation:

Seek Medical Attention: It is important to receive medical treatment as soon as possible after an accident, even if you do not feel seriously injured. Medical records can provide evidence of the extent of your injuries, and you can ensure that all health concerns will be addressed and treated correctly.
Document the Accident: Take photographs of the accident scene, the vehicle, and the defective part if possible. Collect contact information from any witnesses.
Preserve Evidence: Do not repair or alter the vehicle until an expert has inspected it. This can be crucial in proving that a defect was responsible for causing the accident.
Contact an Attorney: An experienced Dallas personal injury attorney can guide you through the legal process, help you gather evidence, and represent you in negotiations or legal proceedings.

Contact a Dallas Car Accident Lawyer

When a car wreck is caused by a defective auto part, victims may receive compensation to address medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. A Dallas defective auto parts attorney can review the circumstances surrounding an accident, work with experts to identify defective components, and take steps to hold a manufacturer or other liable parties responsible for the damages a victim has suffered.