Accidents Because of Defects: What to Know
Auto accidents can usually be blamed on driver errors. Carelessness, not paying attention, distracted driving — all of those can make someone's life miserable in an instant. However, vehicles can have defects just like anything else. When a wreck can be blamed on a vehicle issue rather than a person, what should you do? Read on to find out more.
Vehicles Are Safe and Well-Built in General
The auto industry has a long history of manufacturing dependable and safe vehicles for consumers. However, some of the parts might not be as good as the whole. Everyone has heard of vehicle recalls. In many cases, these recalls apply to things that create safety hazards if they are not corrected. While most vehicle recalls can be fixed with a visit to a garage, some of them may be unknown to the manufacturer. Today's vehicles are chock full of safeguards that make cars safer but sometimes, they not only don't work as well as they should, but they are also dangerous.
Be Aware of Problems
Register your vehicle with the maker so you are assured of receiving word of recalls. If you have been in an accident, however, take steps to verify how a vehicle problem may have contributed to or caused the accident. If you have been told that you are at fault for an accident, you could end up paying the price in the form of higher insurance premiums.
Speak to a Lawyer
If you suspect that your vehicle accident was connected to something that went wrong with your vehicle, speak to a personal injury lawyer. Time is of the essence if you have been accused of being at fault for the accident and the other party could take legal action against you if you don't act soon. Likely, your lawyer will take these actions:
- Get your vehicle examined by a mechanic that can determine if any issues exist with your brakes, tires, and other safety equipment.
- Research and learn about any other complaints or cases with similarities to your case. If there is a class-action lawsuit in existence, speak with your lawyer about joining it. Class action suits are right for some but not everyone.
- Let the other side know that a third party may be part of the accident case. The other side may also need to act against the manufacturer of the faulty part.
Speak to an auto accident attorney without delay and make the maker pay for your damages.
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