When we turn the key in the ignition, there is an inherent trust that our vehicle is safe and reliable for the road ahead. However, this trust can be shattered when defects within the vehicle lead to serious car crashes.
In Atlanta, the impact of an automotive defect can be particularly severe. From flawed design to manufacturing errors, these defects not only compromise the safety of the vehicle but also pose significant risks to drivers, passengers, and others on the road. If a vehicle defect causes a collision, the experienced Atlanta car accident attorneys at Monge & Associates can help.
Common Types of Auto Defects
Auto defects can vary widely, but some types of defects are more common and potentially hazardous than others. These may include:
- Brakes: Defective braking systems can fail to engage properly, leading to an inability to stop the vehicle and increasing the risk of a crash.
- Tires: Faulty tires may blow out and cause the driver to lose control, especially at high speeds or on busy highways.
- Steering Systems: Problems with steering can suddenly impair a driver’s ability to control the vehicle, potentially leading to veering off the road or into other lanes.
- Airbags: If airbags fail to deploy during a collision or deploy unexpectedly, they can cause serious injuries or fail to prevent injuries as designed.
- Electrical Systems: Electrical defects can lead to loss of lighting, unexpected stalling, or fires.
- Seatbelts: Malfunctioning seatbelts may not secure passengers properly during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
- Engine Defects: Engine malfunctions can cause unexpected stalling or loss of power, which can be particularly dangerous on highways or in heavy traffic.
What Happens If Your Vehicle Breaks Down While Driving?
When a vehicle breaks down while driving, the outcomes can be catastrophic. For instance, if the steering locks or the brakes fail, the driver may find it impossible to avoid obstacles or stop the vehicle, leading to collisions that could involve multiple other vehicles. Similarly, tire blowouts can cause the vehicle to swerve uncontrollably, potentially flipping over or exiting the roadway.
If an electrical system fails, particularly at night, the sudden loss of headlights can render a vehicle invisible to other road users, increasing the likelihood of a collision. Furthermore, fuel system defects can lead to leaks that may ignite in the event of an engine malfunction or when involved in a collision, leading to fires that can quickly engulf a vehicle.
Your Legal Rights After a Crash Caused by an Auto Defect
If you are involved in a crash caused by an auto defect, you have legal rights that may allow you to claim compensation. In these cases, the manufacturer of the defective part or the vehicle can be held liable under product liability law.
Filing a lawsuit against a manufacturer can help you secure a settlement to pay for the costs of medical bills, vehicle repairs, lost wages, and other damages resulting from the accident. It also serves as a public safety measure, pressing manufacturers to uphold high safety standards and recall any vehicles that may endanger public safety.
Contact an Atlanta Car Accident Lawyer for Assistance
If you believe a vehicle malfunction contributed to your accident, you deserve justice—and Monge & Associates can help you achieve it. Our lawyers are prepared to advocate for your rights, investigate your accident, and build a compelling case to hold manufacturers accountable. Contact us today at (888) 477-0597 to investigate your claim and pursue the compensation you deserve.