Defective Vehicles and Car Accidents

Most car accidents are due to driver error. Sometimes it is an error of judgment like failing to deal adequately with weather conditions or driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Other times the error is one of execution like failing to brake in time or not checking one’s blind spot. There are, however, car accidents that are caused or worsened by a defect in the vehicle itself. Recently, there have been multiple automobile recalls that could have been to blame.
Dangerous Defects
Defective vehicles and parts occasionally cause car accidents, but more often they cause unnecessary injury or death in a car accident caused by driver error. Some especially dangerous defects are:
- Faulty Tires
- Exploding gasoline tanks
- Seatbelt failure
- Airbag failure or delayed inflation
Car makers will only issue a full recall of a car model in the case of major design flaws or extremely dangerous and widespread defects. If a part on your vehicle has been recalled, the manufacturer may not be liable for accidents and injuries resulting from that particular defect. Whether or not a defect is the cause of the car accident, the victim should contact a skilled accident lawyer right away to find if he or she has a legal right to compensation.
Manufacturers who find a defect after a model has already been released but choose not to issue a recall will usually issue a general advisory notice instead. This notice informs vehicle owners to take their car to the dealership to have the problem fixed. If a particular defect has to be repaired often enough, it may fall under your state’s “lemon law,” which may require the manufacturer to replace the whole vehicle.
It is a good idea to check the manufacturer’s website on a regular basis for information on recalls and other important notices. If you have been in a car accident possibly caused or worsened by a defective product, the experienced Virginia defective vehicle attorneys at Kalfus & Nachman can offer qualified legal assistance.
Injuries Caused by Defective Safety Components
A dangerous malfunction does not need to be present in all vehicles of that model to be considered an injury-causing defect. Drivers count on safety equipment like airbags and seatbelts to work every single time. Therefore, if you are injured as a result of a defective product, you may have a case against the manufacturer. Just one airbag or seatbelt malfunction can injure or kill someone in a car accident.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a car accident involving a defective product, do not delay in contacting an attorney, specifically an attorney with experience in car accident and personal injury lawsuits. The personal injury lawyers at Kalfus & Nachman will inform you of your rights and show the manufacturer’s insurance company that you mean business.
To schedule a free consultation with a car accident lawyer, please contact the skilled Kalfus & Nachman car accident attorneys online, serving Norfolk, Hampton, Newport News, Portsmouth, Roanoke, and Virginia Beach clients.