Rochester Motor Vehicle Product Liability Lawyer

When you purchase a vehicle, you expect it to be safe and reliable. Unfortunately, some cars have dangerous defects that put drivers, passengers, and others on the road at risk. If you or a loved one suffered harm due to a faulty automobile in Rochester, New York, you may have grounds for a product liability claim. A motor vehicle product liability lawyer at William Mattar Law Offices can evaluate your case and help you pursue fair compensation for your losses after a Rochester crash.

Auto defects come in many forms, from faulty airbags and seatbelts to defective brakes, tires, and electrical systems. These issues often arise from mistakes in the design, manufacturing, or marketing of vehicles and their components. The consequences for consumers range from minor inconveniences to catastrophic injuries and fatalities.

The product liability attorneys at our firm understand the distress and hardship you may be experiencing if a defective vehicle has impacted your life. Medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and vehicle repair costs add up quickly. You deserve support during this difficult time. We can help you hold negligent manufacturers accountable and seek the compensation you need to move forward.

Don't face the aftermath of an auto defect alone. Contact our firm today for a free, no-obligation consultation with a knowledgeable attorney. We'll listen to your story, answer your questions, and advise you on the best path forward. Let us handle the legal complexities while you focus on healing and recovery.

FREE CASE EVALUATION

Types of Motor Vehicle Defects

Auto defects fall into three main categories based on where the error occurred in the production and sales process. Understanding these distinctions helps determine liability in product defect cases.

Design Defects

Design defects originate in the planning stages before a vehicle or part ever reaches production. These flaws make the product inherently unsafe, even when manufactured correctly. Examples include:

• SUVs with a high center of gravity prone to rollovers
• Fuel tanks positioned in vulnerable locations 
• Weak roof structures that collapse in accidents
• Poorly designed seatbelts that unlatch during collisions
• Airbags that deploy with excessive force

Manufacturers must identify and address design issues through rigorous testing before mass-producing vehicles. When they fail to do so, consumers pay the price.

Manufacturing Defects

Manufacturing defects occur during the production process. The design may be sound, but errors in assembly, substandard materials, or quality control failures result in a dangerous product. Common manufacturing defects include:

• Improperly installed brakes or steering components
• Faulty wiring leading to electrical fires
• Contaminated materials used in critical parts
• Missing bolts, screws, or other fasteners
• Cracked or weak metal components

Even a single defective part can compromise the safety of an entire vehicle. Manufacturers must implement strict quality control measures to catch these issues before cars leave the factory.

Marketing Defects

Marketing defects, also known as failure to warn, involve inadequate instructions or warnings about a product's proper use and potential hazards. Examples in the automotive industry include:

• Insufficient warnings about rollover risks for top-heavy vehicles
• Lack of clear instructions for engaging four-wheel drive systems
• Failure to disclose known safety issues to consumers
• Misleading claims about a vehicle's safety features or performance
• Inadequate labeling of weight limits for roof racks or towing capacity

Manufacturers must provide clear, accurate information about their products. When they fail to do so, consumers may unknowingly put themselves in danger.

How Do You Know If Your Car Has a Defect?

Identifying an auto defect isn't always straightforward. Some signs that your vehicle may have a dangerous flaw include:

• Unexpected behavior: If your car suddenly accelerates, loses power, or steers erratically without apparent cause, a defect may be to blame.
• Unusual noises: Persistent grinding, clicking, or popping sounds often indicate mechanical issues.
• Warning lights: Pay attention to dashboard alerts, especially those related to critical systems like brakes or airbags.
• Recalls: Check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website regularly for recalls affecting your vehicle model.
• Repeated repairs: If you're constantly fixing the same issue, it may point to a deeper problem.
• Accidents or near-misses: If you experience a crash or close call that seems unrelated to driver error, investigate potential defects.
• Consumer complaints: Research online forums and consumer reports to see if others have experienced similar issues with your make and model.
• Poor performance: Significant drops in fuel efficiency, handling, or overall performance may indicate underlying problems.

Trust your instincts. If something feels off about your vehicle's operation, it is a good idea to take it seriously and have a qualified mechanic inspect it.

What to Do If You Discover Your Car is Defective

If you suspect your vehicle has a defect, take these steps to protect yourself and strengthen any potential legal claim:

• Prioritize safety: Stop driving the vehicle if you believe it poses an immediate danger.
• Document everything: Keep detailed records of all issues, repairs, and communications with the dealership or manufacturer.
• Report the problem: File a complaint with the NHTSA and inform the manufacturer in writing.
• Preserve evidence: Don't allow the dealership to destroy or keep allegedly defective parts after repairs.
• Get a second opinion: Have an independent mechanic inspect the vehicle and provide a written assessment.
• Research: Look for similar complaints or recalls related to your issue.
• Gather records: Collect all maintenance records, purchase documents, and warranty information.
• Seek legal advice: Consult a product liability attorney to understand your rights and options.

Remember, manufacturers often try to downplay or deny defects. Don't let them dismiss your concerns or pressure you into accepting inadequate solutions.

How Our Product Liability Attorneys Can Help

Navigating a motor vehicle product liability claim requires extensive legal knowledge and resources. An experienced attorney from William Mattar Law Offices can:

• Investigate the defect: We work with automotive experts to identify the root cause of the issue and gather evidence to support your claim.
• Determine liability: Multiple parties may share responsibility for a defective vehicle. We'll identify all potentially liable parties to maximize your compensation.
• Calculate damages: We'll assess the full extent of your losses, including current and future medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and non-economic damages like pain and suffering.
• Handle communications: We'll deal with insurance companies, manufacturers, and other parties on your behalf, protecting your rights throughout the process.
• Negotiate settlements: Our skilled negotiators will fight for a fair settlement that fully compensates you for your losses.
• Prepare for trial: If the responsible parties refuse to offer adequate compensation, we'll build a strong case and represent you in court.
• Meet deadlines: Product liability claims in New York have strict time limits. We'll ensure all necessary paperwork is filed promptly.
• Provide support: Our team will guide you through every step of the legal process, answering your questions and addressing your concerns along the way.

With a knowledgeable attorney on your side, you level the playing field against large corporations and their teams of lawyers.

The Types of Compensation a Lawyer Can Help You Receive

In a successful motor vehicle product liability claim, you may be entitled to various forms of damages, including:

• Coverage for all related healthcare costs, including future treatments and rehabilitation.
• Reimbursement for income lost due to your injuries, including diminished earning capacity, if applicable.
• Compensation for vehicle repairs or replacement, as well as other damaged personal property.
• Monetary awards for physical discomfort and emotional distress caused by the defect and resulting injuries.
• Compensation for activities and experiences you can no longer participate in due to your injuries.
• In cases of extreme negligence or intentional wrongdoing, the court may award “exemplary” damages (punitive damages) to punish the manufacturer and deter similar behavior.
• If a defective vehicle causes a fatality, eligible surviving family members may seek compensation for funeral expenses, lost financial support, and loss of companionship through a wrongful death action.

An experienced attorney will carefully calculate all applicable damages to ensure you receive full and fair compensation for your losses.

Why Choose William Mattar Law Offices to Handle Your Auto Defect Claim

When selecting a law firm to represent you in a motor vehicle product liability case, consider the following advantages of working with William Mattar Law Offices:

• We have the financial and professional resources to thoroughly investigate your claim, consult with top experts, and build a strong case.
• Our team is committed to providing personalized attention to each client. We'll keep you informed throughout the process and always prioritize your best interests.
• You won’t pay any attorneys’ fees for us to handle your case. We only accept attorney fees as a percentage of the award we obtain for you.
• As a well-established New York-based personal injury firm, we understand the state's laws and court systems, giving you an advantage in your case.
• We recognize the hardships you're facing and will treat you with empathy and respect throughout the legal process.
• Our firm has secured substantial settlements and verdicts for clients in various personal injury cases, including those involving defective vehicles.
• From initial consultation to final resolution, we'll handle every aspect of your case, allowing you to focus on recovery.

By choosing William Mattar Law Offices, you work with a law firm that combines outstanding legal skills with genuine care for its clients.

Frequently Asked Questions About Auto Defect Claims in New York

How long do I have to file a product liability claim in New York?

New York's statute of limitations for product liability claims is generally three years from the date of injury. However, exceptions may apply, and your attorney needs to gather evidence while it’s fresh to support your claim. For that reason it is advisable to consult an attorney right away.

What if the defect caused a crash, but I was partially at fault?

New York follows a pure comparative negligence rule. You can still recover damages, but your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Can I still file a claim if my car is old or no longer under warranty?

Yes, you may still have a valid claim. Every case is unique. The age of the vehicle and warranty status don't necessarily bar you from seeking compensation for a defect.

What if the manufacturer issued a recall for my vehicle?

A recall doesn't automatically disqualify your claim. If you were injured before the recall or the recall remedy was inadequate, you might still have a case.

How much does it cost to hire a product liability attorney?

The product liability attorneys at William Mattar Law Offices work on a contingency fee basis. You pay no attorneys’ fee upfront, and we only collect legal fees if we obtain compensation for you.

Contact a New York Auto Defect Attorney Now

If you were harmed by a defective vehicle in Rochester or anywhere in New York, don't wait to seek legal help. The team at William Mattar Law Offices is ready to review your case and advise you on the best course of action.

We offer free, no-obligation consultations to discuss your situation and explain your legal options. Our experienced attorneys will fight tirelessly to hold negligent manufacturers accountable and secure the compensation you deserve.

Don't let auto manufacturers off the hook for their dangerous mistakes. Contact William Mattar Law Offices today to schedule your free case evaluation. Let us put our knowledge, resources, and dedication to work for you.

FREE CASE EVALUATION