Investigating Auto Parts Post-Crash
October 21, 2022
One of the primary reasons why it is so important to speak with a lawyer before making any assumptions about a car accident case is that, all too often, car accident victims aren’t aware that an “invisible” force has played a role in their injurious circumstances. Most of the time, it is very difficult to accurately determine the cause(s) of an auto accident before an attorney has been given the opportunity to evaluate the situation thoroughly and objectively. This is, perhaps, especially true in scenarios involving defective auto parts.
Investigating Auto Parts Post-Crash
As an experienced car accident attorney can confirm, it often takes some truly dedicated investigative efforts to uncover the role that a defective auto part plays in an injurious crash. Sometimes, there are clear signs that something mechanical, electrical, or practical is amiss. An exploding air bag, brakes that fail to engage, or a strange alert going off on one’s dash are certainly clues that something has gone wrong. However, sneaky, silent problems with lesser-understood parts, aspects of the electrical system, etc. may not be uncovered until a thorough and objective assessment of a vehicle’s entire functionality has been embraced in the wake of a crash.
It isn’t enough to simply take your car to a mechanic to have it looked at. An attorney who has extensive experience with defective auto parts cases will want to be a part of this process from start to finish. Also, you’ll want to avoid speaking with insurance representatives about any concerns you may have about a defective auto part until an attorney has advised you in re: how to handle the situation. Depending on the kinds of tricks and tactics that an insurance company may utilize, the ways in which you respond to its questions and inquiries could lead to a rejection or devaluation of your claim. Wait until an attorney has weighed in to navigate this part of the legal process.
Holding a Defective Auto Parts Manufacturer Accountable for Harm
Generally speaking, accident injury victims are in a strong position to hold others accountable for the harm they’ve suffered if that harm resulted from another’s negligence, recklessness, or intentionally dangerous conduct. This rule applies to many defective auto parts cases, just as it does to virtually every other kind of car accident scenario. However, there are circumstances under which it is even easier to hold a defective auto parts manufacturer liable for harm than it is to hold virtually any other party named as a defendant in a lawsuit.
Some auto parts defect cases may be tried in court under a legal theory known as strict liability. This theory doesn’t require a victim to prove that the manufacturer was negligent in its processes, only that it sold a defective product and that product caused the victim’s harm. A lawyer can explain whether this legal theory is applicable to your situation.
