Who Is Liable for an Automotive Design Defect?
Automobile design defects can pose serious safety risks, potentially leading to accidents, injuries, and even fatalities. These defects can affect everything from the vehicle’s structural integrity and crashworthiness to critical safety features, such as airbags or braking systems. In Texas, victims of accidents caused by automotive design defects often have the right to pursue compensation, but determining who is liable for the defect can be a complex process. Below we discuss what you need to know about automotive design defects and personal injury claims. For personal advice and assistance related to an auto accident in Texas, contact the Turley Law Firm to speak with an experienced Dallas product liability lawyer.
What Is an Automotive Design Defect?
An automotive design defect refers to a flaw in a vehicle’s design that makes it inherently unsafe, even when properly manufactured and used as intended. Unlike manufacturing defects, which occur during assembly or production and may only affect a single vehicle or a small number, design defects are present in every vehicle of the same model. These defects can compromise the safety of drivers, passengers, and others on the road, increasing the likelihood of accidents and injuries.
Common examples of automotive design defects include:
- Defective airbags that fail to deploy or deploy unnecessarily
- Poorly designed fuel systems that can cause fires or explosions upon impact
- Vehicles that are prone to rollovers due to a narrow wheelbase and high center of gravity
- Roofs that collapse unnecessarily in a rollover accident
- Defectively designed tires prone to tread separation, sidewall failures and blowouts
- Seatbelt defects that fail to properly restrain occupants during a collision
If a design defect leads to an accident, it is crucial to identify the party responsible for the defect to determine liability.
Who Can Be Held Liable for an Automotive Design Defect?
In Texas, multiple parties may be held liable for an automotive design defect, depending on the circumstances of the case. Here are some of the potential defendants:
1. The Vehicle Manufacturer
The vehicle manufacturer is often the primary party responsible for automotive design defects. If the design flaw affects the vehicle’s overall safety, the manufacturer may be held accountable for any injuries or damage that result from the defect.
2. The Parts Manufacturer
In some cases, a specific component of the vehicle—such as the airbag, brakes, or fuel system component—may be defectively designed. If the part was designed by a third-party manufacturer and incorporated into the vehicle, that parts manufacturer could be held responsible. For example, if a defective airbag manufactured by a third party fails to deploy in an accident, leading to injuries, the parts manufacturer may share liability.
Pursuing a Product Liability Claim in Texas
Under Texas law, victims of automotive design defects can file a product liability claim to seek compensation for their injuries. Product liability claims in Texas can be based on strict liability, meaning the injured party does not need to prove negligence. Instead, the injured party must demonstrate that the vehicle had an unreasonably dangerous defect, that the defect was present when it left the manufacturer, and that the defect caused the injury or damage.
In some cases, plaintiffs may also pursue claims for negligence. Negligence claims may arise if the manufacturer failed to conduct proper safety testing or knowingly ignored potential hazards.
Compensation for Automotive Design Defect Victims
Injury victims of automotive design defects in Texas may be entitled to various types of compensation, including:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages or loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Property damage
- In cases of wrongful death, funeral expenses, loss of companionship, mental anguish, and economic loss
It is essential to consult with an experienced Dallas personal injury attorney who can help you successfully pursue a product liability claim. Automotive design defect cases involve significant investigation, expert testimony, and litigation against well-funded and sophisticated corporations, making legal representation crucial for maximizing your compensation.
How the Turley Law Firm Can Help
At the Turley Law Firm, we understand the devastating impact that automotive design defects can have on your life. Our experienced Dallas personal injury attorneys are committed to holding negligent manufacturers accountable and securing the compensation you deserve. We have the resources and expertise to investigate your case, identify all liable parties, and pursue justice on your behalf.
If you or a loved one has been injured due to an automotive design defect in Dallas, Texas, or throughout the Southern and Southwestern United States, contact us today for a free consultation by calling 214-691-4025 or sending an email to turley@wturley.com. We will work tirelessly to protect your rights and ensure that you receive the compensation needed to move forward with your life.
