When vehicle defects lead to car accident claims, the consequences extend beyond property damage. Serious injuries, mounting medical bills, and lost income can devastate your life. Understanding how vehicle defects lead to accidents and knowing your legal rights is essential for protecting your future. At Crantford Meehan, we help South Carolina residents pursue compensation when defective vehicles cause injuries. If you’ve been injured in a car accident caused by a defective vehicle, contact our personal injury attorneys today for a free consultation.
Understanding Vehicle Defects and Their Role in Accidents
Vehicle defects represent manufacturing or design flaws that make a vehicle unsafe to operate. These defects differ fundamentally from driver negligence. They exist regardless of how carefully someone drives. A defective vehicle can fail without warning, leaving drivers powerless to prevent an accident.
Vehicle defects fall into three primary categories:
Manufacturing Defects occur during production when a vehicle or component fails to meet its intended design specifications. A single error on an assembly line can result in thousands of unsafe vehicles reaching consumers. These types of defects are often easier to prove in court because they demonstrate a clear deviation from the manufacturer’s own standards.
Design Defects exist when the vehicle’s design itself creates an unreasonable safety risk. Even if manufactured perfectly according to specifications, the design poses inherent dangers. Unlike manufacturing defects, design defect cases require proving that a safer alternative design existed and was economically feasible.
Failure to Warn happens when manufacturers fail to provide adequate warnings or instructions about known risks associated with their vehicles. This category includes situations where manufacturers knew about potential hazards but failed to communicate them to consumers.
Common defective car parts that cause accidents include brake systems that fail without warning, airbags that deploy unexpectedly or fail to deploy during crashes, steering mechanisms that become unresponsive, tires prone to blowouts, and seat belt systems that don’t restrain occupants properly. These defects can transform routine driving into life-threatening situations.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tracks vehicle defects and issues recalls when manufacturers identify safety problems. However, recalls don’t always reach all affected vehicles. Some owners never complete recall repairs. When a defective vehicle causes an accident, establishing that the defect—not driver error—caused the crash becomes crucial for your injury claim. Understanding how vehicle recalls work can strengthen your legal position.
Types of Vehicle Defects That Cause Accidents
Manufacturing Defects
Manufacturing defects result from errors during production. A faulty weld, incorrect component installation, or material failure can compromise vehicle safety. These defects typically affect a limited number of vehicles from a specific production batch or timeframe. Manufacturing defect cases often succeed because they demonstrate that the vehicle failed to meet its own design specifications.
When investigating manufacturing defects, our attorneys work with accident reconstructionists to analyze damage patterns and determine whether the defect caused the collision. This forensic analysis is critical to establishing liability.
Design Defects
Design defects represent flaws in how a vehicle or component was engineered. Even if manufactured perfectly, the design itself creates unreasonable risks. For example, a vehicle frame designed with insufficient structural support or a fuel tank positioned where it ruptures easily during collisions represents a design defect. Design defect cases require proving that a safer alternative design existed and was economically feasible.
Vehicle defects in these categories can cause accidents through multiple mechanisms. Brake failures prevent drivers from stopping. This leads to rear-end collisions or crashes into pedestrians. Steering defects make vehicles difficult or impossible to control. This causes loss-of-control accidents. Tire failures cause blowouts that destabilize vehicles. This is particularly dangerous for truck accidents and SUVs with higher centers of gravity. Airbag malfunctions fail to protect occupants during crashes. They may also deploy unexpectedly, causing injuries themselves.
How Vehicle Defects Lead to Serious Injuries
When a vehicle defect causes an accident, the resulting injuries can be catastrophic. Defective brakes that fail at highway speeds create high-impact collisions with severe consequences. Steering failures that occur during turns can cause vehicles to leave roadways or collide with other vehicles. Tire blowouts can cause vehicles to flip. This is particularly dangerous for SUVs and trucks with higher centers of gravity.
The injuries resulting from defect-caused accidents often exceed those from typical negligence-based accidents. A brake failure at 60 miles per hour creates a more violent collision than a distracted driver accident. Occupants experience greater forces, leading to more severe trauma. Victims of distracted driving accidents may recover less severe injuries compared to defect-caused collisions.
Common injuries from vehicle defect accidents include traumatic brain injuries from impact forces, spinal cord injuries causing paralysis, multiple fractures and broken bones, internal organ damage, severe lacerations, and permanent disfigurement. Many victims face long-term consequences, including chronic pain, reduced mobility, cognitive impairment, and permanent disability. These serious injuries often require long-term medical care and rehabilitation.
The medical costs associated with these injuries accumulate rapidly. Emergency room treatment, surgery, hospitalization, rehabilitation, physical therapy, and ongoing medical care create substantial expenses. Many victims cannot return to work immediately or at all, compounding financial hardship through lost wages and reduced earning capacity. Understanding how to calculate lost wages is essential for maximizing compensation.
Establishing Liability in Vehicle Defect Accidents
Proving that a vehicle defect caused your accident requires establishing several elements. First, you must demonstrate that the vehicle had a defect. This could be manufacturing, design, or failure to warn. Second, you must show that the defect made the vehicle unreasonably dangerous. Third, you must prove that the defect caused your accident and the resulting injuries.
In South Carolina, product liability law holds manufacturers, parts suppliers, and distributors responsible for defective products that cause injuries. Unlike negligence claims that require proving the defendant acted carelessly, product liability claims focus on whether the product itself was defective and unreasonably dangerous. Understanding the difference between negligence and product liability is crucial for your case strategy.
Who Can Be Held Liable
Multiple parties may bear responsibility for a vehicle defect accident. The vehicle manufacturer bears primary responsibility for design and manufacturing defects. Parts suppliers who manufactured defective components can be held liable. Dealers who sold the vehicle may share liability if they knew or should have known about defects. Mechanics who performed repairs may be liable if their work created or failed to identify defects.
In some cases, multiple defendants share responsibility. Our attorneys investigate all potential liable parties to maximize your recovery. We’ve successfully pursued claims against manufacturers, parts suppliers, and dealers in complex multi-party litigation.
Burden of Proof
In product liability cases, you must prove your case by a preponderance of the evidence. This means it’s more likely than not that the defect caused your injuries. This differs from criminal cases requiring proof beyond a reasonable doubt. You’ll need evidence demonstrating that the defect existed, made the vehicle unreasonably dangerous, and caused your specific accident.
The burden of proof in civil cases is lower than in criminal proceedings, making product liability claims more achievable for injured victims. Our personal injury attorneys understand how to present evidence effectively to meet this standard.
Evidence Needed
Establishing a defect requires multiple forms of evidence. The damaged vehicle itself provides crucial evidence. Forensic examination can reveal whether the defect caused the accident or whether driver error did. Maintenance records showing the vehicle was properly maintained strengthen your case. They eliminate negligent maintenance as a cause. Recall notices and NHTSA complaints about similar vehicles demonstrate that manufacturers knew about the defect. Expert testimony from engineers and accident reconstructionists can explain how the defect caused your accident. Medical records document your injuries and their connection to the accident.
Preserving evidence is critical. Don’t allow repairs that could destroy evidence of the defect. Our attorneys will guide you through the evidence preservation process to protect your claim.
Negligence vs. Product Liability
Negligence claims require proving the defendant owed you a duty. They also require proving the defendant breached that duty. Finally, they require proving the defendant caused your injuries through carelessness. Product liability claims don’t require proving carelessness. They require proving the product was defective and unreasonably dangerous. This distinction matters significantly. A manufacturer might have exercised reasonable care in designing a vehicle. However, if the design still creates unreasonable risks, liability can attach under product liability law.
South Carolina courts recognize all three types of product liability claims. These include manufacturing defects, design defects, and failure to warn. This comprehensive approach protects injured victims when vehicles cause accidents due to defects. Understanding how to prove fault in a car accident is essential for your case.
Vehicle Recalls and Your Legal Rights
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) maintains a database of vehicle recalls issued when manufacturers identify safety defects. These recalls officially acknowledge that a defect exists and poses a potential danger to drivers and passengers. A recall affecting your vehicle’s model year or production period can significantly strengthen your injury claim. If your vehicle was subject to a recall, that evidence can be robust in proving the manufacturer’s knowledge of the defect.
When NHTSA identifies a defect, manufacturers must notify owners and provide free repairs. However, not all owners receive notices. Many who do never complete the repairs. If your vehicle had an open recall at the time of your accident, this evidence demonstrates the manufacturer knew about the defect. It also shows the manufacturer failed to ensure it was corrected.
Recalls serve multiple purposes in injury claims. They establish that the defect existed. Manufacturers don’t issue recalls for imaginary problems. They show the manufacturer knew about the defect. This can support claims for punitive damages in some cases. They demonstrate that a safer alternative existed. The repair procedure proves this. They create a timeline showing when the manufacturer became aware of the problem.
If your vehicle was subject to a recall, check NHTSA’s vehicle recalls database to determine whether the recall applied to your specific vehicle. Gather any recall notices you received. If you completed the recall repair, obtain documentation. If you didn’t complete it, this doesn’t eliminate your claim. It simply means the defect remained uncorrected. An uncompleted recall actually strengthens your case by demonstrating the manufacturer’s knowledge.
Steps to Take After a Vehicle Defect Accident
Immediately following an accident, your priority is safety and medical care. Move to a safe location if possible. Call emergency services if anyone is injured. Seek medical attention even if injuries seem minor. Some injuries don’t manifest symptoms immediately. Understanding what to do after a car accident is critical for protecting your legal rights.
Documenting the Defect
Preserve evidence of the defect before the vehicle is repaired or scrapped. Take photographs and videos of the damaged vehicle. Focus on the area where the defect occurred. If brake failure caused the accident, photograph the brake system. If a tire blowout occurred, photograph the tire and wheel. Document the vehicle’s condition, mileage, and maintenance history. Learn how to take accident scene photos that will support your claim.
Preserving Evidence
Don’t allow the vehicle to be repaired until an attorney and expert have examined it. Repairs can destroy evidence of the defect. Request that your insurance company preserve the vehicle for inspection. Gather all maintenance records showing the vehicle was properly maintained. Collect any recall notices you received. Obtain the vehicle’s service history from the dealership. This evidence is crucial for establishing that the vehicle was properly maintained and the defect was not caused by negligent upkeep.
Reporting to NHTSA
File a complaint with NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation. This creates an official record of the defect and your accident. NHTSA complaints help identify patterns. If multiple people report similar defects, NHTSA may launch an investigation. This strengthens your claim. Creating an official record with NHTSA is one of the most important steps.
Seeking Medical Attention
Obtain a comprehensive medical evaluation and treatment. Keep detailed records of all medical care. This includes emergency room visits, hospitalizations, surgeries, physical therapy, and follow-up appointments. Document all medical expenses. These records establish the extent of your injuries and your damages. Understanding how to track medical expenses will help maximize your recovery.
Contacting an Attorney
Vehicle defect cases involve complex legal and technical issues. An experienced attorney can investigate whether a defect caused your accident. They can identify all liable parties. They can pursue maximum compensation. Early consultation allows your attorney to preserve evidence and begin an investigation while details remain fresh. Don’t delay—contact a car accident lawyer immediately after your accident.
How Crantford Meehan Can Help With Your Vehicle Defect Claim
At Crantford Meehan, we understand the complexities of vehicle defect cases. Our attorneys have represented clients injured in accidents caused by defective vehicles. We have secured settlements that cover medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Our track record demonstrates our commitment to pursuing maximum compensation for our clients.
Our Experience
Both partners at Crantford Meehan—William C. Crantford and Jerry A. Meehan Jr.—are graduates of Gerry Spence’s Trial Lawyers College. This is an intensive program focused on trial advocacy and client representation. Both hold AV Preeminent ratings from Martindale-Hubbell. This rating reflects the highest peer recognition for legal ability and ethical standards. This training and recognition reflect our commitment to thorough investigation and strong representation.
Our proven results in vehicle accident litigation demonstrate our capability in defect cases. We obtained a $2.35 million settlement for a family injured in a tractor-trailer collision on I-26 in Berkeley County and recovered $1 million for clients struck by an 18-wheeler near Summerville. See our case results and settlements for more examples of successful recoveries. Our client testimonials demonstrate the quality of our representation.
Our Investigation Process
We begin by thoroughly investigating whether a defect caused your accident. We retain qualified engineers and accident reconstructionists. They examine your vehicle and analyze the damage patterns. They determine whether the defect or driver error caused the crash. We obtain your vehicle’s maintenance records and service history. This establishes that the vehicle was properly maintained. We research whether NHTSA had issued recalls for your vehicle. We determine when the manufacturer became aware of the defect. Our investigation process is thorough and leaves no stone unturned.
Working With Experts
Expert testimony is essential in vehicle defect cases. We collaborate with engineers, accident reconstructionists, and medical professionals to explain the defect, its role in the accident, and the impact on your health. Their testimony forms the technical basis of your case, ensuring it is presented with the highest level of credibility and strength.
Negotiating and Litigating
We negotiate with manufacturers, suppliers, and insurers by presenting evidence of the defect, its cause, and your resulting damages. Our goal is to ensure you receive fair compensation. When settlement negotiations fail, we’re prepared to take your case to trial. Our trial experience means we’re not intimidated by large corporations with substantial legal resources. We’ve successfully litigated complex personal injury cases against major manufacturers.
Contingency Fee Basis
We represent clients on a contingency fee basis. You pay no upfront costs. We only recover a fee if we secure compensation for you. This arrangement aligns our interests with yours. We succeed only when you recover. This means you can pursue your claim without financial risk.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is considered a vehicle defect?
A vehicle defect refers to any flaw in design, manufacturing, or safety warnings that makes a vehicle unsafe to operate. First, manufacturing defects occur when production errors cause a vehicle or component deviates from its intended design. Next, design defects exist when the design itself creates an unreasonable risk of injury, even if the car is built exactly as intended. Finally, failure to warn occurs when manufacturers fail to provide adequate instructions or warnings about known dangers.
Can I sue a car manufacturer for an accident caused by a defect?
Yes. Under South Carolina product liability law, you can sue manufacturers, parts suppliers, and distributors for accidents caused by defective vehicles. You don’t need to prove the manufacturer was careless, you only need to prove the vehicle was defective and unreasonably dangerous. You must also prove that the defect caused your accident and injuries. Our personal injury attorneys can evaluate your specific situation.
How do I prove a vehicle defect caused my accident?
Proving causation requires multiple forms of evidence. Forensic examination of your vehicle can reveal whether the defect caused the accident. Expert testimony from engineers and accident reconstructionists can explain the defect’s role. Maintenance records showing proper vehicle care eliminate negligent maintenance as a cause. Recall notices and NHTSA complaints demonstrate the manufacturer knew about the defect. Medical records connect your injuries to the accident. Our attorneys know how to gather and present this evidence effectively.
What damages can I recover in a vehicle defect claim?
You can recover economic damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, rehabilitation costs, and property damage. You can also recover non-economic damages for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life. In cases involving gross negligence or intentional misconduct, punitive damages may be available. These damages punish the manufacturer and deter future misconduct. Understanding how pain and suffering damages are calculated helps you understand your potential recovery.
Is there a time limit to file a vehicle defect claim in South Carolina?
In South Carolina, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is three years from the date of the injury. However, product liability cases can have different timelines depending on when the defect was discovered. Because these deadlines can vary, you must consult an attorney as soon as possible to ensure your claim is filed on time. Acting quickly helps protect your rights and preserves crucial evidence for your case.
What if my vehicle was recalled, but I didn’t get it fixed?
An uncompleted recall doesn’t eliminate your claim. It actually strengthens your case by demonstrating the manufacturer knew about the defect. The fact that you didn’t complete the repair doesn’t mean you caused the accident. The defect caused it. The manufacturer’s failure to ensure the repair was completed may support additional liability. This is an important point that many injured victims misunderstand.
Do I need an attorney for a vehicle defect accident claim?
Vehicle defect cases involve complex legal and technical issues. Manufacturers have substantial resources and experienced legal teams. An attorney levels the playing field. We investigate the defect, retain necessary experts, and pursue maximum compensation. Early consultation protects your rights and maximizes your recovery. Don’t face manufacturers alone—let our experienced personal injury attorneys fight for you.
Contact Crantford Meehan for Your Vehicle Defect Claim
If a vehicle defect caused your accident and injuries, you deserve compensation. Crantford Meehan represents South Carolina residents injured in defect-caused accidents. We investigate thoroughly, work with qualified experts, and fight for fair compensation. Our commitment to our clients is unwavering. Contact us today for a free consultation. We’re available 24 hours a day to discuss your case. Call (843) 832-1120 or visit our website to request a consultation. We serve South Carolina clients from our Charleston, Summerville, and Florence offices. Whether you’re in the Lowcountry or the Pee Dee region, we’re here to help.
