You purchase a vehicle trusting that it will operate safely and reliably. Unfortunately, defective auto parts and faulty designs can put you and your loved ones at risk. If you or someone you care about suffered harm due to a vehicle defect in New York, the attorneys at William Mattar Law Offices want to help. A vehicle product liability lawyer from our firm can evaluate your case, explain your legal options, and advocate for maximum compensation.
Auto defects can range from seemingly minor inconveniences to life-threatening hazards. When automotive companies prioritize profits over safety, innocent people can pay the price. The physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial burdens that result from auto defects can devastate you and leave you struggling to pick up the pieces.
Whether you're dealing with a stubborn dealership, wrestling with a manufacturer over repairs, or reeling from a crash a defective part caused, you can rely on us to thoroughly investigate the matter and help you hold the at-fault parties accountable.
Our attorneys understand the toll these situations can take on your life and livelihood, and we can assist with recovering maximum compensation.
Don't let big auto companies dismiss your valid concerns or deny you fair compensation. Contact William Mattar Law Offices today for a free, no-obligation consultation about your NY vehicle defect case. We're ready to listen to your story and explain how we can potentially help protect your rights.
Table of contents
- Common Automobile Defects
- How Do You Know If Your Vehicle's Defective?
- What To Do If You Discover a Defect with Your Vehicle in NY
- How a NY Product Liability Attorney Can Help
- Why Choose William Mattar Law Offices for Your NY Vehicle Defect Claim
- Compensation We Can Help You Recover
- FAQs About Auto Defect Claims in New York
- Talk with Our NY Product Liability Lawyers for Free
Common Automobile Defects
Automotive defects take many forms and can affect various components or systems. Understanding the different categories of defects can help identify potential issues and liability. Here are some of the most common types of auto defects:
Defective Designs
Design defects occur when a vehicle or component has an inherently unsafe design, even if manufactured correctly. These flaws can exist in the original blueprints or plans. Examples include:
- Vehicles with a high center of gravity prone to rollovers
- Fuel tanks positioned in vulnerable locations
- Weak roof structures that collapse easily in rollover accidents
- Seatbelts or airbags that fail to properly restrain occupants
- Door latches that open during collisions
Defects in Manufacturing and Installation
Manufacturing defects happen when errors occur during the production or assembly process. The part may be designed properly, but mistakes or oversights in making or installing the component can lead to defective vehicles or parts. Common examples are:
- Improperly installed brakes or brake lines
- Faulty wiring that causes electrical fires
- Tires with weak spots or separating treads
- Airbags that deploy unexpectedly or fail to deploy
- Steering components that break or malfunction
Marketing Defects or Omissions
When manufacturers don't adequately inform consumers about potential dangers or proper use of their products, serious issues can result. These so-called “failure to warn” violations can involve:
- Insufficient warnings about rollover risks for SUVs and trucks
- Lack of instructions on proper child seat installation
- Inadequate information about weight limits or towing capacities
- Failure to disclose known issues or recall information
- Misleading claims about safety features or crash test ratings
Other Defects and Potentially Liable Parties
While manufacturers bear primary responsibility for defects, other parties in the supply and distribution chain may share liability:
- Parts suppliers who provide faulty components
- Dealerships that fail to address known issues or perform proper maintenance
- Mechanics who improperly install replacement parts
- Rental car companies that neglect vehicle maintenance
- Government entities responsible for road design or maintenance (in cases involving road conditions)
How Do You Know If Your Vehicle's Defective?
Identifying a vehicle defect isn't always easy. Some defects fail unexpectedly while on the road, causing serious accidents and injuries. Other defects are more subtle and get worse over time. Some signs to watch for include but are certainly not limited to:
- Unexpected behavior: Your car suddenly accelerates, decelerates, or loses control without input from you.
- Unusual noises: Persistent squealing, grinding, or clunking sounds may indicate problems with brakes, suspension, or other components.
- Warning lights: Dashboard warning lights can alert you that your car is having an issue. However, sometimes, dashboard lights may be defective themselves. Always keep an eye on the instrument panel and take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic for inspection.
- Recalls: The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website publishes vehicle recalls when issues arise and are properly reported. Check the site to see if your car is listed.
- Recurring repairs: If you experience the same problem multiple times despite repairs, it may indicate a deeper defect.
- Performance issues: Significant drops in fuel efficiency, power, or handling could signal underlying issues.
- Visible damage or wear: Inspect tires, belts, and other visible components for unusual wear patterns or damage.
- Accidents without clear cause: If you're involved in a crash and can't identify a direct cause, a vehicle defect may be to blame.
What To Do If You Discover a Defect with Your Vehicle in NY
If you believe your vehicle has a defect, you must take certain steps to protect yourself and your legal rights:
- Keep detailed records of all issues, repairs, and communications with the dealership or manufacturer.
- File a complaint with the NHTSA and the vehicle manufacturer.
- Have an independent mechanic inspect your vehicle.
- Don't repair or modify the vehicle if you're considering legal action.
- Look for similar complaints from other owners of your vehicle model.
- Speak with a product liability lawyer to understand your rights and options.
- If a recall is issued, follow the manufacturer's guidance for addressing the issue.
- If the defect poses an immediate safety risk, stop driving the vehicle until it's repaired.
How a NY Product Liability Attorney Can Help
Dealing with a defective vehicle and pursuing compensation from large auto companies requires legal knowledge and skill. An experienced product liability attorney can level the playing field and help you in several ways:
- Work with automotive experts to thoroughly examine your vehicle, identify the defect, and determine its cause.
- Investigate the entire supply chain to hold all responsible parties accountable.
- Collect maintenance records, accident reports, witness statements, and other crucial evidence to support your claim.
- Deal with insurance companies, manufacturers, and other parties on your behalf, protecting your rights throughout the process.
- Assess the full extent of your losses, including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future expenses related to the defect.
- Negotiate for a fair settlement that fully addresses your needs.
- Take your case to trial, if necessary, and present a compelling argument to a jury.
Product liability laws are complicated. Our attorneys will guide you through the legal process, ensuring we meet all deadlines and follow proper procedures. With a skilled attorney from our firm handling your case, you can rest easier knowing a dedicated legal professional is looking out for your rights and best interests.
Why Choose William Mattar Law Offices for Your NY Vehicle Defect Claim
When selecting a law firm to handle your vehicle defect case, experience and dedication matter. Here's why countless New Yorkers have trusted William Mattar Law Offices:
- We provide individualized attention and regular updates throughout your case.
- Like most personal injury attorneys, we work on a contingency fee basis. No attorney fees unless we recover compensation for you.
- Our attorneys stay up-to-date on the latest developments in product liability law and auto safety regulations.
- We collaborate with automotive engineers, accident reconstructionists, and medical professionals to build the strongest possible cases.
- We have a strong track record of securing fair settlements without the need for lengthy trials.
William Mattar Law Offices is dedicated to holding negligent manufacturers accountable and improving vehicle safety for all. As a New York firm, we understand the unique aspects of state laws that may affect your case. We also understand the physical, emotional, and financial hardships you’re experiencing because of a vehicle defect and are committed to help you get the best outcome possible.
Compensation We Can Help You Recover
The impact of a vehicle defect can extend far beyond the initial incident. We'll fight to recover compensation for all your losses, including:
- Current and future costs for treatment, rehabilitation, and adaptive equipment
- Lost wages and other work-related benefits
- Reduced earning capacity and loss of future income if your injuries result in a permanent disability
- Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress
- Damages for diminished quality of life and inability to engage in activities you once enjoyed.
If a loved one died due to a vehicle defect, we can help pursue a wrongful death claim to seek compensation for funeral expenses and lost financial support among other damages. In cases of extreme negligence, unlawfulness, or wanton disregard for public safety, we may pursue additional compensation (punitive damages) in court.
FAQs About Auto Defect Claims in New York
How long do I have to file a vehicle defect claim in New York?
New York's statute of limitations for negligence claims generally allows you three years from the date of injury to file a lawsuit, but every case is unique. Sometimes the limitation is much shorter, or there are even shorter notice of claim deadlines. It's best to consult an attorney as soon as possible.
What if the defect caused an accident, but I was partly at fault?
New York follows a "pure comparative negligence" rule. You can still recover compensation, but your award may be reduced by your percentage of fault. We'll work to minimize any assigned blame and maximize your recovery.
The manufacturer issued a recall for my vehicle. Does this affect my claim?
A recall doesn't automatically prove liability, but it can strengthen your case. If you were injured before the recall was issued, you might still have a valid claim.
What if I no longer have the defective vehicle?
While having the vehicle is helpful, it's not always necessary. We can often build strong cases using accident reports, medical records, and expert testimony.
How much does it cost to hire a vehicle product liability lawyer?
At William Mattar Law Offices, like most personal injury attorneys, we work on a contingency fee basis. You pay no upfront costs, and we only collect a fee if we recover compensation for you.
Talk with Our NY Product Liability Lawyers for Free
If an automotive defect has hurt you or a close family member in New York, don't face the situation alone. The experienced attorneys at William Mattar Law Offices are ready to listen to your story and explain how we can help. We offer free, no-obligation consultations to discuss your case and outline your legal options.
Don't let manufacturers or insurance companies downplay your suffering or deny you fair compensation. Contact William Mattar Law Offices today to schedule your free case evaluation. Let us put our knowledge, resources, and passion for justice to work for you. Together, we'll fight for maximum compensation while holding negligent parties accountable for putting profits over safety.
How can I help you?