If you were involved in a car accident that you believe was caused by a vehicle defect, it’s understandable to feel frustrated and want answers. As upsetting as these experiences are, you may be surprised to learn vehicle manufacturers can sometimes be held liable for injuries or damages resulting from defective parts.
A product liability lawsuit aims to ensure corporate accountability, but acting requires working with attorneys experienced in these specialized cases. If initial signs suggest a defect caused you to have a car accident, a lawyer can investigate whether suing the manufacturer would result in a favorable outcome for you.
If evidence substantiates your suspicions, a Houston car accident attorney can help you understand your legal options to sue the manufacturer or other parties involved in the making and distribution of the defective product that caused your crash.
Evidence that Can Prove a Manufacturer Defect Existed
Proving that a manufacturing defect caused the accident without an attorney can be challenging. Your Houston car accident lawyer has the resources to perform a thorough investigation and seek evidence to validate your claim. A few key types of proof may be needed to show a vehicle defect caused a crash:
- Engineering analysis: An expert would inspect the crashed vehicle and perform testing to identify any mechanical or manufacturing flaws. They can analyze how flaws relate to crash causation.
- Safety testing data: Records of any prior testing done by the manufacturer on that vehicle component may reveal known defects or failure risks.
- Recall and complaint history: Checking if the car or part had been previously recalled or subject to consumer/regulator complaints for similar defects.
- Witness statements: Eyewitnesses can provide accounts of anything strange noticed before the crash, like strange noises or handling issues.
- Vehicle maintenance records: Logs showing the component had routine servicing rule out poor maintenance as a cause.
- Photographic evidence: Photos of crash damage or defective parts can support an engineering inspection.
- Car data recorder: Modern vehicles have black box-like recorders called event data recorders that may log mechanical sensor readings around the time of impact.
- Expert testimony: Engineers or other specialists would need to testify that the defect was a substantial factor in causing the plaintiff’s injuries.
Collecting as much relevant factual proof as possible is key to proving the legal claim in court if needed. When you work with a car accident lawyer in Houston, we can gather and preserve this evidence to ensure admissibility.
John (Jack) Zinda
Founder / CEO
Over 100 years of combined experience representing injured victims across the country.
Available 24 / 7|Free ConsultationFiling a Product Liability Lawsuit If a Defect Caused Your Accident in Houston
Filing a product liability lawsuit against a vehicle manufacturer is a complex legal process that requires strategic planning. An experienced Houston product liability attorney will:
Conduct Necessary Investigations
We may order an engineering evaluation of the defective part and gather evidence like maintenance records, accident data, and prior complaints.
Follow Procedural Requirements
Determine the best court for filing based on state/federal rules regarding venue and statutes of limitations.
Build a Strong Case
Develop expert witness testimony, obtain discovery from the maker, and quantify all economic/non-economic damages to maximize potential compensation.
Engage in Settlement Negotiations
Leverage evidence and liability risks to push insurers for fair offers before proceeding to trial if needed.
Neil Solomon
Partner
Real results matter. We do not get paid unless we win your case.
Available 24 / 7|Free ConsultationDetermining Liability Factors in a Defective Vehicle Parts Claim
There are several ways to prove a product defect, and many factors will be scrutinized. Your Houston car accident lawyer may consider the following:
- Defect vs. design choice: Proving negligence involves showing an unreasonable defect existed, not just that an alternative design was possible.
- Foreseeable risks of harm: Manufacturers can be liable if risks of a defect-caused accident were foreseeable based on testing/past incidents.
- Compliance with regulations: Makers may argue compliance with safety standards should absolve liability, but regulations set minimums.
- Timeline of defect knowledge: When a maker first knows of an issue, actions like recalls or warnings can influence responsibility.
- Role of others in the supply chain: Part makers, suppliers, or distributors may share liability depending on involvement in defect creation.
Jason Aldridge
Attorney
Standing by 24 hours a day, 7 days a week ready to answer in your time of need.
Available 24 / 7|Free ConsultationMaximizing Damages Recovery
Your Houston auto accident attorney will consider all of the following expenses and losses when calculating the damages in your claim:
- Medical expenses, past & future: We will seek compensation for all treatment costs to fully cover ongoing therapy/care.
- Lost earnings & reduced earning capacity: Economic analysts help determine proper wages and the impact on long-term income potential.
- Pain & suffering: While subjective, trials establish comparable award amounts for different types/severities of injuries.
- Punitive damages: In rare cases involving willful misconduct, additional punitive damages may be awarded to punish makers if negligence was particularly egregious.
Cole Gumm
Attorney
We are here to ensure you won’t have to face this difficult time alone.
Available 24 / 7|Free ConsultationLearn More About Suing a Vehicle Manufacturer for a Product Defect
Remember, you need not face this challenging process alone. The Zinda Law Group can help you stand up to manufacturing companies, car makers, and the multiple insurance companies that may be involved in your claim. You should not be left with financial burdens because of their negligence.
Our consultation is confidential, always without cost or obligation. Let us review the circumstances, help determine if compensation may be warranted, and guide the next steps to obtaining the fair resolution you deserve. Contact us for a free case evaluation.
Jason Aldridge
Attorney
We have successfully represented clients in a wide variety of cases across the country.
Available 24 / 7|Free Consultation
