Driver error is the leading cause of motor vehicle collisions, but it is far from the only contributing factor. At the end of the day, even the most conscientious motorists can wind up in accidents due to hazards that are outside of their control such as poor road conditions and vehicle malfunctions.
Beyond tracking automotive recalls, there’s not much you can do to reduce your risk of a vehicle malfunction. Even if your car, truck, or SUV is perfectly maintained, a single defective part could be all it takes to cause a serious crash.
If you were hurt in a collision due to an automotive defect, contact The Law Office of Richard M. Kenny. Our product liability attorneys have more than 100 years of combined experience practicing law.
We can investigate your accident to identify all potentially liable parties. Call 212-421-0300 to schedule a free case evaluation with a personal injury lawyer in New York City.
Let’s explore some frequently asked questions about defective automobile product liability claims:
- How Can I Prove Liability After an Accident Caused by a Defective Automobile?
In claims involving a defective vehicle, the strongest evidence of liability is usually the vehicle itself. An auto parts specialist can evaluate the vehicle for any defects that might have contributed to the crash. Also, accident reconstruction experts can assess photos of the scene and video footage to determine how the accident occurred. Your attorney can also look into product recalls and accident reports involving the same vehicle and defect.
- What Can I Do to Strengthen My Product Liability Claim?
The single most important step you can take following a collision caused by a defective automobile is preserving the vehicle. Do not perform any repairs or sell it for parts until your product liability attorney tells you it is okay to do so.
- Can I Sue an Auto Manufacturer over a Vehicle’s Crashworthiness?
Crashworthiness refers to how well a vehicle can withstand a forceful impact and how safe its occupants will be in the event of a collision. Since car accidents are so common, auto manufacturers have a duty to design and construct vehicles with the assumption that they will be involved in collisions. If manufacturers fail to include mandatory safety features or if they falsify the results of accident safety tests, they may be held liable for damages after a serious crash.
- Can I File a Claim If the Defect Was Not Directly Responsible for the Crash?
Injured parties may have the right to pursue damages even if the defect in question was not directly responsible for the accident. If you were struck by a distracted driver, for example, and your airbag failed to deploy, you might have grounds for two separate claims: one against the negligent motorist and a second against the vehicle or airbag manufacturer.
Call 212-421-0300 to Speak with a Product Liability Lawyer in New York City
If you were hurt in a collision because of a defective vehicle, turn to The Law Office of Richard M. Kenny. We have recovered more than $100 million for our valued clients in successful settlements and verdicts. Call 212-421-0300 or fill out our Contact Form to schedule a free consultation with a personal injury attorney in New York City.
