Vehicle defects can turn everyday driving into a dangerous activity. Whether it’s a brake failure, airbag malfunction, or a faulty steering system, a defect can cause devastating accidents, leaving victims with injuries, financial burdens, and unanswered questions. If you believe a defect in your vehicle contributed to an accident, you might be able to sue the manufacturer to recover damages.

This guide walks you through the process of filing a lawsuit against a manufacturer, ensuring your rights are protected and justice is served.

What Is Manufacturer Liability in Vehicle Defects?

Vehicle manufacturers are responsible for ensuring their products are safe for consumers. When they fail in this duty, the law allows injured parties to hold them accountable. This falls under product liability law, which applies in three main scenarios:

1. Design Defects: The vehicle or a specific part is inherently unsafe due to its design.
2. Manufacturing Defects: The defect occurred during the production process, making the vehicle unsafe even though the design was sound.
3. Failure to Warn: The manufacturer did not adequately warn consumers about risks associated with using the vehicle or a component.

For example, if your airbags failed to deploy in a collision due to a manufacturing defect, the manufacturer could be held liable for injuries caused by the defect. Learn more about how this relates to accidents in What If the Accident Was Caused by a Defective Car Part?.

Steps to Sue a Manufacturer for a Defective Vehicle

1. Document the Accident and the Defect

Your first step after any accident should be to gather evidence. For a defective vehicle case, you’ll need specific documentation showing how the defect caused or contributed to the accident. This includes:

• Photos of the vehicle and the defect.
• Copies of repair or maintenance records.
• Police reports detailing the accident.
• Witness statements.

For tips on collecting this evidence, see What Evidence Do I Need to Support My Auto Accident Claim?.

2. Seek Professional Evaluation

To strengthen your case, you may need an independent expert to evaluate the defect. This expert can:

• Inspect the vehicle to identify the defect.
• Explain how the defect caused or worsened the accident.
• Provide a professional opinion that supports your claim.

3. Report the Defect

It’s essential to report the defect to the manufacturer or dealership. This creates a record of the issue and demonstrates that you took proactive steps. Additionally, check if the defect is part of a recall. You can search for recalls on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website.

4. File an Insurance Claim

While you prepare to sue, file a claim with your insurance provider. Some policies cover damages caused by defective vehicles. If the manufacturer is found liable, your insurance company may seek reimbursement through subrogation. Learn more about insurance processes in How Do Insurance Companies Handle Auto Accident Claims?.

5. Consult an Attorney

Suing a vehicle manufacturer is a complex process that often involves battling corporate legal teams. An experienced attorney can:

• Assess the strength of your case.
• Help you file the necessary paperwork.
• Negotiate a settlement or represent you in court.

Discover the benefits of hiring legal representation in What Is the Role of a Personal Injury Attorney in an Auto Accident Case?.

6. File Your Lawsuit

Your attorney will guide you through filing a product liability lawsuit. In most cases, you’ll need to prove:

1. The defect existed: Demonstrate that the vehicle or part was defective.
2. The defect caused the accident: Show that the defect directly contributed to the crash and your injuries.
3. You suffered damages: Provide evidence of your injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses.

For timelines on filing, check How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit After an Auto Accident in Nevada?.

What Compensation Can You Recover?

When you sue a manufacturer, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical Bills: Including emergency care, surgeries, and ongoing treatments.
• Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress. For details, see How Is Pain and Suffering Calculated in an Auto Accident Case?.
• Vehicle Damage: Costs to repair or replace your car.
• Punitive Damages: Additional damages intended to punish the manufacturer for negligence.

Common Challenges in Suing a Manufacturer

While product liability laws protect consumers, these cases can be challenging. Some obstacles include:

• Proving the Defect: The manufacturer may argue the accident was due to driver error, not a defect.
• Statute of Limitations: Waiting too long to file can result in your case being dismissed.
• Corporate Defenses: Manufacturers often have extensive resources to fight claims.

To avoid these pitfalls, consult an attorney as soon as possible.

Real-Life Examples of Defective Vehicle Lawsuits

Vehicle defect lawsuits are more common than you might think. Some high-profile cases include:

• Airbag Failures: Millions of vehicles were recalled after airbags manufactured by Takata were found to explode on impact, causing injuries and fatalities.
• Brake Defects: Faulty brakes in certain vehicles have led to accidents and subsequent lawsuits.

These cases highlight the importance of holding manufacturers accountable for safety.

Conclusion

Suing a manufacturer for a defective vehicle that caused an accident is a daunting task, but it’s often necessary to secure justice and prevent similar accidents from happening to others. By gathering evidence, consulting professionals, and working with an experienced attorney, you can navigate the complexities of product liability law.

If you’ve been injured due to a defective vehicle, don’t wait. Start by reviewing your rights in How Can I Protect My Rights After an Auto Accident? and consult an attorney to discuss your options.