Los Angeles Auto Defect Lawyer

verdicts & settlements
$5
Million
AUTO VS TRUCK
$3
Million
AUTO VS MOTORCYCLE

Common Vehicle Defects That Can Cause Accidents

Vehicle defects can cause or worsen accidents in many ways, often putting drivers and passengers at serious risk. Sometimes, a defect causes the accident itself, such as when a steering failure or brake malfunction makes the driver lose control. In other cases, defects can make the injuries worse during or after an auto accident. An example is when an airbag fails to deploy or a fuel system catches fire.

Vehicle Defects

Some of the most common vehicle defects that can lead to accidents or severe injuries in Los Angeles include:

  • Defective seat belts that malfunction or fail to lock properly
  • Windshield wiper assemblies that fail during rainstorms
  • Steering components that lock, break, or fail
  • Accelerator controls that stick or break
  • Defective fuel system components that leak or rupture
  • Electrical system problems such as short circuits or faulty wiring
  • Airbags that deploy unexpectedly or fail to deploy
  • Sunroofs that are loose, unstable, or poorly installed
  • Tire defects or other vehicle components that crack, split, or blow out
  • Defective brakes that wear out or fail completely

These defects can lead to devastating outcomes, including broken bones, spinal injuries, burns, and traumatic brain injuries. Victims in auto defect cases in Los Angeles often face not only physical harm but also emotional distress, lost income, and long-term disabilities.

Types of Vehicle Defects We Handle After an Accident

After a serious car accident, identifying the exact cause of the failure is key to proving your case. Some crashes happen because of driver error, but others occur due to hidden mechanical or design problems. At Saeedian Law Group, we investigate every detail to uncover whether a vehicle defect contributed to your injuries. Below are the most common types of defects we handle.

Mechanical and Safety Defects
Design Defects
Tire and Engine Defects
Electrical or Software Malfunctions

Who Can You Sue After a Defective Car Accident?

Defective Car Accident

Under California law, automobile manufacturers have a legal duty to ensure that the products they provide consumers are safe. Manufacturers, distributors, and retailers also have a legal duty to warn consumers of any dangers when they are discovered promptly.

When they fail to meet these legal obligations, injured passengers and drivers can recover damages through a product liability lawsuit. Depending on the facts in your case, several different parties may be liable for your injuries, such as:

  • The automobile manufacturer
  • The company that distributed the vehicle
  • The auto dealer or retailer
  • The auto parts manufacturer

What to do After a Car Accident Caused by a Defective Motor Vehicle

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Los Angeles and suspect a defect may be involved, start by checking the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall database. The NHTSA maintains a database of all recalls due to manufacturing defects issued for motor vehicles, car seats, and tires. Checking this database can help determine if your vehicle or one of its components has been recalled.

Car Accident

If a recall exists, the auto manufacturer is legally required to fix the defect at no cost and notify vehicle owners in writing. However, not all defects are reported to the NHTSA, so even if your car isn’t listed, the defect may still exist. In such cases, an independent investigation by an attorney or automotive expert is often needed to identify the cause of the crash. Speak with an experienced product liability or car accident attorney who can help gather evidence, consult experts, and hold the responsible parties accountable.

You should seek professional help if:

  • A minor collision caused a catastrophic injury or death.
  • One occupant suffered severe injuries while others in the same vehicle had only minor harm.
  • Severe damage was confined to one section of the vehicle.
  • Seat-belted occupants were thrown from the vehicle or seriously injured.

They Know How to Prove the Defect:

Auto defect lawyers understand how to investigate car failures. They work with engineers and experts to show that the crash happened because of a design or manufacturing problem and not because of your driving. This proof is critical to winning your case.

They Handle Large Car Companies:

Auto manufacturers and their insurance teams often try to avoid paying claims. A skilled lawyer knows how to deal with these corporations, file the right documents, and make sure your case is taken seriously.

They Help You Get Maximum Compensation:

Without legal help, many victims accept low settlements that do not cover their true costs. An attorney or law firm helps ensure you are paid for both your car repairs and all other losses. They help you recover medical expenses, lost wages, and damages for pain and suffering.

They Understand California Laws:

Auto defect claims in Los Angeles fall under California’s product liability laws, which can seem complicated without legal guidance. Your lawyer knows how to meet deadlines, file correctly, and navigate local court rules so your case is not dismissed on a technicality.

They Increase Your Chances of Success:

Studies show that people represented by lawyers often receive higher settlements than those who represent themselves. With an experienced Los Angeles auto defect lawyer, you have someone fighting for your best interests from start to finish.

FAQs

At Saeedian Law Group, our attorneys have been handling personal injury cases for more than 16 years. With our extensive experience, we’ve provided clear answers to some of the most common questions people ask about Los Angeles auto defect claims.

How do I know if my Los Angeles accident was caused by a vehicle defect?

You might suspect a defect if your car malfunctioned before or during the crash. For example, if the brakes failed, the steering locked, or the airbags didn’t deploy. A mechanic’s inspection, recall notices, or expert evaluation can help confirm whether a defect caused the accident. An auto defect lawyer can also investigate and gather technical evidence to prove fault.

Can I sue the manufacturer in Los Angeles for a defective vehicle?

Yes. Under California’s product liability laws, you can sue the vehicle manufacturer, parts maker, or even the dealership if a defect caused your accident or injuries. You don’t need to prove negligence, only that the defect existed and directly led to your harm.

What compensation can I recover for a vehicle defect accident in Los Angeles?

You may recover compensation for medical expenses, property damage, lost income, pain and suffering, and future care needs. In serious cases, you might also be eligible for punitive damages if the manufacturer knew about the defect and failed to act.

How long do I have to file a defective vehicle claim in Los Angeles?

In California, you generally have two years from the date of the accident or injury to file a claim. However, it’s best to act quickly, as evidence like vehicle parts or black box data can be lost or destroyed over time.

What evidence is required in Los Angeles auto defect claims?

Key evidence includes the damaged vehicle, maintenance records, recall notices, expert reports, and witness statements. Your lawyer may also use engineering analysis or accident reconstruction to prove the defect caused the crash and your injuries.