Chicago Auto Defect Attorney
Any flaw that affects the operation of a vehicle has the potential to cause significant injuries and property damage. If you have been harmed due to a vehicle defect, we encourage you to reach out to a car accident attorney with trusted experience in Windy City as quickly as you can. At Taxman, Pollock, Murray & Bekkerman, LLC, we are here if you need a Chicago auto defect attorney to help you investigate what happened and secure compensation for your losses.
Common Auto Defects That Cause Injury
Auto defects can range from minor issues to major flaws that lead to serious accidents and injuries. Some of the most common auto defects that result in injury include:
- Defective airbags. Airbags are designed to protect occupants during a crash, but when they malfunction, they can either fail to deploy or deploy with too much force, causing additional injuries.
- Faulty brakes. Brake failures are incredibly dangerous, as they prevent drivers from stopping or slowing down in time to avoid a collision. Defective brake systems can lead to catastrophic accidents, particularly at high speeds.
- Tire defects. Issues such as tire tread separation or blowouts can cause a driver to lose control of the vehicle, leading to rollovers or other serious accidents. Tires must be properly designed and manufactured to ensure road safety.
- Steering and suspension defects. Steering issues, such as defective power steering systems, can make it difficult for drivers to control their vehicles. Suspension defects can also lead to instability, increasing the risk of a rollover or crash.
- Electrical system failures. Electrical defects, including problems with wiring or battery systems, can cause vehicle fires or sudden loss of control while driving, putting everyone on the road at risk.
Who Gets Held Liable When This Happens
Liability in auto defect cases can be complex, as more than one party may be involved in the manufacturing and distribution of the vehicle or its components. The following parties may be held responsible for an auto defect:
- The vehicle manufacturer. If the defect originated during the design process or manufacturing and assembly, the vehicle manufacturer could be held liable for any resulting accidents and injuries.
- The parts manufacturer. In many cases, specific components of the vehicle, such as brakes, tires, or airbags, are manufactured by third-party companies. If a defective part caused the accident, the parts manufacturer may be held accountable.
- Dealerships or distributors. If a dealership or distributor knowingly sold a defective vehicle or failed to properly inspect it before sale, they could also share liability in an auto defect lawsuit.
- Mechanics or repair shops. If a vehicle was recently repaired and the defect resulted from negligent maintenance or faulty repairs, the repair shop or mechanic could be held liable for the accident.
Types of Compensation Available for Auto Defect Injury Claims
Victims of auto defect accidents in Illinois may be entitled to several types of compensation. The specific damages you can recover will depend on the nature of the accident and the extent of your injuries. Compensation may include:
- Medical expenses. This includes compensation for immediate medical care, hospital stays, surgeries, and ongoing treatment such as physical therapy or rehabilitation. If you require future medical care as a result of your injuries, these costs should also be factored into your claim.
- Lost wages. If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages during your recovery. In cases of permanent disability, you could also recover damages for loss of future earning capacity.
- Pain and suffering. In addition to economic damages, victims of auto defect accidents can seek compensation for the physical pain and emotional suffering caused by the accident. This includes the impact the injuries have on your quality of life.
- Property damage. If your vehicle was damaged in the accident, you may be able to recover compensation for repair or replacement costs.
It is important to work with an experienced Chicago auto defect attorney to ensure you recover the full amount of compensation you are entitled to. At Taxman, Pollock, Murray & Bekkerman, LLC, we are dedicated to helping victims of defective vehicle accidents get the justice they deserve. If you have been injured due to an auto defect, contact us today for a free consultation.