“Failure to Restrain” Defects Still a Major Problem in the Auto Industry

Every driver may hope that their vehicle will remain relatively safe in the event of a collision, but this is not always the case. Auto defects are especially dangerous when they involve the vehicle’s safety features such as the seat belts. Defective seat belts can lead to serious injuries or even death, and many drivers are unsure of who is at fault and where they can receive compensation for these particularly devastating scenarios. While the situation may feel overwhelming, those that fail to seek out car defect lawyers could be looking at a lengthy trial, an unfavorable outcome, and mounting medical bills.

The Most Common Car Defects

Many drivers and car owners are surprised to hear that the amount of recalls due to vehicle defects is at an all-time high. Even with amazing new safety features, there are millions of recalls every single year with 2014 having the single most recalls in a 12 month period. In addition to seat belt defects, these vehicles are often recalled for gas leak issues, brake problems, defective air bags that fail to deploy, and flimsy steering materials that can warp or break. When even a single one of these components is no longer working properly, every passenger in the vehicle and those in all nearby vehicles will be at risk. Whether or not an accident takes place, car owners will need to understand the importance of product liability laws and what they can do to protect their safety and their rights as a consumer.

Understanding the Concept of “Crashworthiness”

If a component of the vehicle such as the seat belts malfunction, then the entire issue may revolve around the concept of the “crashworthiness” of the car. Manufacturers are required to design vehicles with proper safety features that limit the chance of a serious injury during a crash. Vehicles that are not built to this standard may not meet be crashworthy and the manufacturer or designers may be at fault. Generally, the amount of force that takes place during an accident must be spread across as much area as possible. This includes the amount of force that takes place when a seat belt restraints a driver or passenger. The focus of the case may shift over to personal injury law if the seat belts are defective, they do not restrain the passenger, and a serious injury or death takes place.

Which Party is to Blame?

Auto manufacturers maintain large teams of legal representatives, and this means that drivers and other injured victims are at a distinct disadvantage. Even if the manufacturer does recognize that they are partially or fully at fault, they will almost always attempt to provide minimal compensation in order to cut their losses. This is why drivers must immediately contact an attorney with experience in personal injury and product liability cases. These legal representatives will go through the exhaustive legwork that is required of these types of cases in order for victims to receive fair compensation. In the event of a widespread problem with defective parts, a class action lawsuit and punitive damages may be required.

It is vital that the responsible party is held liable for damages in these cases. Anyone that has experienced a defect with their vehicle should seek out immediate assistance in order to protect their rights and their future.