When we think of car accidents, driver errors like speeding, texting, or running red lights usually come to mind. But what about the vehicle itself? Sometimes, it is not the person behind the wheel but a faulty part that causes a crash. Defective auto parts are responsible for thousands of accidents every year, leading to injuries, lawsuits, and even fatalities.
If you or a loved one has been hurt due to a faulty vehicle component, speaking with an accident lawyer in Bakersfield can help you understand your rights and options. The most common defective car parts leading to serious accidents on the road include:
- Brake System Failures
Brakes are arguably the most critical safety component of any vehicle. When they fail, the consequences can be catastrophic. Faulty brake pads and defective brake lines can result in an inability to stop in time, leading to rear-end collisions or worse. Manufacturers are required to ensure brakes meet strict safety standards, but design flaws and manufacturing defects still slip through.
- Tire Blowouts and Defects
Tires connect your car to the road, so any issue here can spell disaster. Tire blowouts can occur because of tread separation, poor manufacturing, or even incorrect installation. Inadequate traction due to a defect can also make it hard to stop or maneuver safely in bad weather. A defective tire at highway speeds can cause a driver to lose control in seconds, resulting in multi-car pileups.
- Steering System Malfunctions
Imagine trying to steer your car and realizing the wheel is not responding. That is the frightening reality for some drivers who experience defective steering systems. Problems like steering failure or broken steering columns can prevent a driver from making safe turns or staying in their lane. It is a scary scenario that has, unfortunately, caused many high-speed collisions.
- Faulty Airbags
Airbags are supposed to save lives, not pose additional dangers. However, defective airbags fail to deploy in a crash, while others deploy too forcefully or without cause, causing severe injuries. The infamous Takata airbag recall is a prime example where tens of millions of vehicles were recalled worldwide due to the risk of shrapnel being ejected upon deployment.
- Defective Accelerators
Unintended acceleration is another major hazard caused by defective vehicle components. This can happen when a gas pedal becomes stuck, fails to respond correctly, or when electronic throttle systems malfunction. These incidents are particularly dangerous because the driver may not be able to slow down or stop the car, increasing the risk of high-speed collisions.
- Electrical System Defects
Modern cars rely heavily on complex electrical systems to control lights, wipers, engine performance, and more. Defects in these systems can cause anything from engine failure to loss of vehicle control. A short circuit or failed sensor can leave a driver in the dark while driving at night or in poor weather conditions.
- Seat Belt Failures
A seatbelt is a simple yet essential safety feature. When it does not work properly, it exposes passengers to a far greater risk of injury. Defective seat belt designs have led to countless injuries that could have been avoided with proper manufacturing oversight.
Conclusion
Vehicle defects are more than just mechanical inconveniences; they are life-threatening dangers. If you have been injured in a crash and suspect that a defective part played a role, do not navigate the situation alone. An experienced lawyer can help you investigate the cause, hold the manufacturer accountable, and pursue compensation for your injuries.
By: Chris Bates
