Although driver error causes many collisions, defective auto parts are responsible for thousands of car accidents each year. Determining liability in these situations becomes more complicated because the fault may lie with the manufacturer, not another driver. Recognizing the signs of a defective part and knowing your legal options can help you pursue fair compensation.
What Are Common Defective Auto Parts That Cause Accidents?
Brake system failures rank among the most dangerous defects, often leading to rear-end collisions and intersection crashes when drivers cannot stop in time. Tire defects, including tread separation and sidewall blowouts, cause drivers to lose control at highway speeds, while steering component failures prevent proper vehicle maneuvering during critical moments. Airbag malfunctions may result in deployment failures that leave occupants unprotected or unexpected inflation that causes personal injury. Additionally, fuel system defects can cause post-collision fires, and electronic system failures disrupt power steering, acceleration, and braking functions.
How Can I Tell if a Defective Part Caused My Crash?
Several indicators can identify whether a defective part caused your accident. Warning signs before the accident, such as unusual noises, vibrations, or illuminated dashboard lights, often signal mechanical problems that contributed to the collision. After the crash, an inspection may show that a component failed independently rather than breaking from impact forces. Recall notices issued for your specific vehicle make and model indicate known defects that manufacturers have acknowledged. We recommend taking the vehicle to a mechanic, who can determine the failure timeline and establish whether the defect existed before impact.
Who Is Liable for Accidents Involving Defective Auto Parts in New Brunswick?
The auto manufacturer bears responsibility for design flaws and manufacturing defects that make vehicles unsafe, whereas parts manufacturers face liability when individual components fail as a result of poor construction or materials. Dealerships may be held accountable if they sold vehicles with known defects without disclosure, and repair shops that installed faulty parts or performed substandard work can share liability. Distributors who sold defective aftermarket parts may also face claims, as multiple parties often share responsibility in product liability cases.
What Evidence Do I Need to Prove a Defect Caused My Accident?
Preserving the defective part itself provides critical physical evidence for proving manufacturing or design flaws. Your vehicle maintenance records demonstrate proper upkeep and rule out neglect, while the accident report, witness statements, and crash scene photographs document the incident circumstances. Medical records should link your injuries directly to the accident, and recall notices, technical service bulletins, or complaints filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)can reveal known problems with your vehicle.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim for a Defective Auto Part in New Brunswick?
New Jersey law imposes strict time limits for filing personal injury and product liability claims after accidents. The statute of limitations generally allows two years from the accident date to file a lawsuit. However, different deadlines may apply depending on when you discovered the defect or when recalls were announced. Missing these deadlines can permanently bar your right to compensation. We recommend consulting with our New Brunswick car accident lawyers promptly after your accident to protect your legal rights and allow sufficient time for investigation.
Can I Receive Compensation if a Defective Part Caused My Injuries?
Product liability claims allow claimants to pursue economic compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, diminished earning capacity, and property damage when defective parts cause accidents. You might also be entitled to non-economic damages that address pain and suffering, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life resulting from your injuries. When manufacturers knew about defects but failed to issue recalls or warnings, punitive damages may be awarded to punish reckless conduct.
New Brunswick Car Accident Lawyers at Rebenack Aronow & Mascolo L.L.P. Help You Pursue Justice for Your Injuries
If you believe that a defective auto part caused your crash, contact our New Brunswick car accident lawyers at Rebenack Aronow & Mascolo L.L.P. Our legal team stands ready to help you. Call us at 732-247-3600 or fill out our online formfor a free consultation. Our office locations are in New Brunswick, Somerville, and Manalapan, New Jersey, and we proudly serve clients in the surrounding areas.
