Common Automotive Design Defects

Automobiles are an integral part of our daily lives, providing convenience and mobility to millions of people, and across the state of Texas, cars and trucks are a must. However, the safety and reliability of these vehicles are heavily dependent on their design and manufacturing. Unfortunately, design defects in automotive engineering can lead to serious accidents and injuries. Identifying when a design defect caused or contributed to a crash or the resulting injuries is a key step in holding automakers liable as a responsible party. For better or worse, our team has experience in this complex area of the law and can help. Below we explore some common automotive design defects, their potential risks, and how you can protect your rights if you’re affected by such issues. If you’ve been hurt in a car accident in Texas, contact Turley Law Firm to speak with an experienced Dallas personal injury lawyer.

Airbag Defects

Airbags are critical safety features designed to protect occupants during a collision. However, design flaws in airbag systems can result in failure to deploy, untimely deployment, or excessive force during deployment. Such defects can lead to severe injuries or even fatalities. In recent years, about 67 million airbags have been recalled due to defects in the metal airbag inflator, which can explode when deployed, sending metal fragments through the cabin. Many injuries and deaths have been traced to this defect.

Seat Belt Defects

Seat belts are another crucial safety component in vehicles, and Texas law requires everyone in the vehicle to be properly bucked up. Design defects in seat belts, such as faulty latching mechanisms or inadequate tensioning systems, can compromise their effectiveness in restraining occupants during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.

Roof Crush Resistance

The structural integrity of a vehicle’s roof is vital in rollover accidents. Design deficiencies that lead to inadequate roof strength can result in roof collapse, posing a significant risk of head and neck injuries and fatalities to the vehicle’s occupants. Vehicles with a high center of gravity and a narrow wheelbase, such as certain pickup trucks and SUVs, are particularly prone to rollovers, and automakers should take care to design these vehicles with crashworthy roofs.

Fuel System Defects

Defects in a vehicle’s fuel system can lead to fuel leaks and fires in the event of an accident. Such design flaws can have catastrophic consequences, including severe burns and other life-threatening injuries.

Tire Defects

Tires are essential for vehicle stability and handling. Design defects in tires can create hazards such as tread separation or sidewall failures that can lead to blowouts and loss of control, resulting in accidents.

Electronic Stability Control (ESC) Issues

ESC systems help drivers maintain control of their vehicles during extreme steering maneuvers. However, design flaws in ESC systems can lead to malfunctions that increase the risk of rollover accidents and loss of vehicle control.

Protecting Your Rights in Automotive Design Defect Cases

If you or a loved one has been injured due to an automotive design defect, it’s important to understand your legal rights. You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Seeking the assistance of an experienced personal injury law firm like Turley Law Firm in Dallas can help you navigate the complexities of product liability law and ensure that your rights are protected.

At Turley Law Firm, we have a long history of representing individuals affected by automotive design defects. Our team is dedicated to holding manufacturers accountable for their negligence and securing the compensation our clients deserve. If you believe you have a case, don’t hesitate to contact us for a free consultation.

Contact Turley Law Firm for Help After a Car Accident in Texas

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, the experienced personal injury lawyers at Turley Law Firm can help you understand your rights and pursue compensation for your injuries and damages. Call 214-691-4025 or email turley@wturley.com for a free consultation. Our zealous Dallas attorneys serve clients throughout Texas and multiple Southern and Southwestern states.