When Defective Vehicles Cause Accidents In Detroit
When a car accident occurs, many of us assume that human error is the primary cause. However, defective vehicles can play a significant role in causing serious accidents. In Detroit, where driving is essential for daily life, defective vehicle parts such as brakes, airbags, or tires can lead to devastating crashes. As attorneys who help victims of car accidents, we often see cases where mechanical failures caused by design flaws, manufacturing defects, or inadequate maintenance lead to life-altering injuries.
Understanding your rights under Michigan law is critical if you’ve been injured in an accident caused by a defective vehicle. Michigan’s car accident laws, combined with product liability statutes, allow victims to hold manufacturers, distributors, and other parties responsible when faulty parts lead to injuries. We will now explain how defective vehicles contribute to accidents, the legal framework in Michigan, and what steps you can take if you or a loved one has been affected.
Common Types Of Vehicle Defects That Cause Accidents
Defective vehicle components can include a wide range of issues, each with its own dangers. Some of the most common defects that lead to accidents are:
- Braking System Failures – Faulty braking systems cause serious rear-end collisions or intersection accidents.
- Airbag Malfunctions – Airbags that fail to deploy can result in severe injuries during a collision.
- Tire Defects – Defective tires, such as those prone to blowouts or tread separation, can cause drivers to lose control.
- Steering System Issues – Problems with the steering system can lead to a sudden loss of vehicle control.
- Electrical System Failures – Electrical issues may cause headlights, brake lights, or turn signals to malfunction, increasing the risk of accidents.
Each of these defects may arise from a flaw in the design, errors in manufacturing, or even a failure to warn consumers about potential dangers.
Michigan Product Liability Laws And Vehicle Defects
Michigan law allows victims of accidents caused by defective vehicles to seek compensation under product liability statutes. These laws apply when a product is unreasonably dangerous due to its design, manufacturing process, or failure to provide adequate warnings.
Under MCL 600.2945, a product liability claim requires proving one or more of the following:
- The product was defectively designed.
- The product contained a manufacturing defect.
- The manufacturer failed to provide adequate instructions or warnings.
For example, if a vehicle’s braking system was improperly manufactured, leading to an accident, the manufacturer may be held liable for the resulting injuries. Similarly, if a company designs a tire that is prone to blowouts under normal driving conditions, that design flaw can lead to liability.
In Michigan, car accident cases involving defective vehicles can involve both product liability and personal injury laws. Victims may recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
The Role Of The No-Fault Insurance System In Michigan
Michigan’s no-fault insurance system can complicate some aspects of car accident claims. Under this system, your own insurance typically covers medical expenses and wage losses, regardless of who was at fault. However, when a defective vehicle causes an accident, additional claims can be brought against the manufacturer or other responsible parties.
For example, if you’re seriously injured due to a defective airbag, your no-fault insurance may cover immediate medical costs, but you can also file a lawsuit against the vehicle manufacturer for long-term damages, such as permanent injuries or emotional distress.
Michigan law defines “serious impairment of body function” as a threshold for pursuing claims outside the no-fault system. This is critical in cases involving defective vehicles because it allows victims to seek compensation for pain and suffering or other noneconomic damages when their injuries meet this standard.
Steps To Take If A Defective Vehicle Causes An Accident
If you believe a defective vehicle contributed to your accident, there are several important steps to take:
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention – Your health should always come first. It is also important to have your injuries documented.
- Preserve The Evidence – Do not allow the vehicle to be repaired or destroyed until it has been inspected by an expert. The defective component may be crucial to proving liability.
- Contact An Experienced Attorney – Cases involving defective vehicles require a thorough understanding of Michigan car accident and product liability laws. We can help ensure that the responsible parties are held accountable.
- Notify The Manufacturer – Informing the manufacturer of the defect can initiate an investigation and may lead to a recall that prevents similar accidents.
By taking these steps, you can strengthen your claim and protect your right to seek fair compensation.
Accidents Caused By Defective Or Recalled Vehicle FAQs
What Are My Legal Rights If A Defective Vehicle Causes My Accident In Michigan?
In Michigan, you have the right to seek compensation from the manufacturer, distributor, or other responsible parties if a defective vehicle caused your accident. Michigan product liability laws hold manufacturers accountable for design defects, manufacturing errors, and inadequate warnings. These claims can include compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and more. Depending on the circumstances, you may also have a claim under Michigan’s no-fault insurance system to cover immediate expenses.
How Can I Prove That A Defective Vehicle Caused My Accident?
Proving that a defective vehicle caused your accident often requires expert analysis. This may involve inspecting the vehicle to identify defects, reviewing accident reports, and consulting engineers or other specialists. Additionally, gathering documentation such as maintenance records, recall notices, and reports of similar defects in other vehicles can help build your case. An attorney experienced in Michigan product liability and car accident law can guide you through this process.
Who Can Be Held Liable For A Defective Vehicle Accident?
Liability for a defective vehicle accident can extend to several parties, including the vehicle manufacturer, the parts supplier, and even the dealership that sold the car. Under Michigan product liability law, any party involved in placing the defective vehicle into the market may be held responsible. Identifying the correct parties and pursuing a claim often requires legal experience to ensure your rights are protected.
Does The Michigan No-Fault Insurance System Affect Claims For Defective Vehicle Accidents?
Yes, Michigan’s no-fault insurance system covers immediate medical expenses and wage losses regardless of fault. However, you can also pursue a claim against the manufacturer or other responsible parties if a defective vehicle caused the accident. Serious injuries that meet Michigan’s threshold for “serious impairment of body function” may allow you to seek additional compensation for pain and suffering.
What Should I Do If My Vehicle Is Part Of A Recall After An Accident?
If your vehicle is recalled after an accident, this information could strengthen your claim. Be sure to retain all recall notices and repair documentation, and have the vehicle inspected by an expert before any repairs are made. This evidence may help demonstrate that the defect contributed to your accident. An attorney can help determine how to use this information to support your case.
Call Our Detroit Car Accident Lawyers To Receive A Free Consultation
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident caused by a defective vehicle, we are here to help. At Ravid & Associates, P.C., we are committed to helping Detroit residents pursue justice and fair compensation. Let us guide you through the process and hold the responsible parties accountable.
Contact our Detroit car accident lawyers at Ravid & Associates, P.C. today by calling (248) 948-9696 to receive your free consultation. Don’t wait—contact Ravid & Associates, P.C. now to protect your rights and explore your legal options. Let us help you pursue justice and just compensation during this challenging time.
