Every time we drive, we rely on our vehicles to function properly and keep us safe. Unfortunately, that trust can be shattered when hidden mechanical flaws or manufacturing errors cause serious harm. Vehicle defects that lead to accidents are more common than many people realize—and they can turn an ordinary drive into a life-changing tragedy. From malfunctioning brakes to defective airbags, these issues can cause devastating crashes and raise complex questions about who is legally responsible.
At Inkelaar Law, our vehicle accident lawyers are committed to helping victims and their families navigate the aftermath of these dangerous situations. Whether it’s a single defective part or a systemic design flaw, the consequences of manufacturer negligence can be severe. That’s why working with experienced car accident lawyers near me or a trusted car crash law firm can make all the difference. Understanding your rights and the role these defects play in accidents is the first step toward seeking justice and compensation.
In this post, we’ll explore the most common types of vehicle defects, how they contribute to collisions, how to identify them early, and why legal guidance is essential if you’ve been injured due to a vehicle defect.
A vehicle defect is any flaw in the manufacturing or design of a vehicle or its components that compromises safety. These defects might be mechanical, structural, or software-related and can result in catastrophic failures on the road.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), thousands of accidents each year stem directly from such defects. This isn’t just a safety issue — it’s also a complex legal matter, involving liability that can extend beyond the driver to manufacturers, parts suppliers, and dealerships.
If you’ve been hurt in a crash caused by a defective vehicle, understanding your legal options is crucial. That’s where trusted auto accident attorneys come in — they have the expertise to navigate product liability claims and help you secure the compensation you deserve.
1. Brake System Failures
Your vehicle’s brakes are its most vital safety system. Defects here can lead to sudden loss of control, resulting in severe crashes.
Common brake defects include:
Brake fluid leaks that cause pressure loss
Failure of the anti-lock braking system (ABS)
Premature wear of brake pads or rotors
Malfunctioning calipers causing uneven braking
Case Highlight: In 2019, over 3.5 million vehicles were recalled due to faulty ABS systems that risked electrical short-circuits and fires, putting countless drivers in danger.
Pro Tip: If you notice your brakes feel “soft,” require more pressure, or hear unusual noises, have them inspected immediately.
2. Steering System Defects
Steering control is essential for safe driving. Defective steering components can cause sudden loss of vehicle control, often leading to high-speed collisions.
Typical steering issues include:
Power steering failures leading to heavy or unresponsive steering
Rack and pinion gear malfunctions
Broken tie rods causing loss of directional control
Advice: If your steering feels loose, jerky, or delayed, don’t ignore it—schedule a mechanic visit promptly.
3. Tire Blowouts and Tread Separation
Tires are the vehicle’s only contact with the road. Manufacturing defects or improper maintenance can cause blowouts or tread separation, leading to rollovers or multi-vehicle crashes.
Causes include:
Defective rubber compounds or construction flaws
Uneven wear from misalignment or suspension issues
Faulty tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) giving false readings
Legal Tip: Victims of crashes involving defective tires should contact an experienced auto accident lawyer near me or car accident attorney to explore their legal options for compensation.
4. Airbag Malfunctions
Airbags save lives—but when defective, they can cause serious injury or death.
Known airbag defects:
Failure to deploy in a crash
Unexpected or spontaneous deployment
Exploding inflator canisters releasing metal shrapnel
The Takata airbag recall, the largest in U.S. history, involved over 67 million vehicles and has been linked to numerous fatalities and injuries.
5. Faulty Seat Belts
Seat belts are your last line of defense in a crash. Defects here severely reduce your chances of avoiding injury.
Common seat belt defects:
Failure of inertial latches during impact
Tears or fraying of seat belt webbing
Buckle release malfunctions
Actionable Advice: Regularly inspect your seat belts for wear and tear, and check with your dealership regarding any recalls affecting your vehicle.
6. Lighting System Failures
Proper lighting is essential for visibility and communication on the road. Defective lighting systems increase the risk of accidents, especially in poor weather or low-light conditions.
Typical lighting problems:
Brake lights failing to illuminate
Headlights dimming or flickering during rain or nighttime driving
Malfunctioning turn signals causing confusion for other drivers
Insight: Although seemingly minor, lighting defects often contribute to rear-end collisions or side-impact crashes.
7. Engine and Transmission Defects
Engine or transmission failures can cause sudden acceleration, stalling, or loss of power steering—all dangerous situations on busy roads.
Examples include:
Unintended acceleration due to software glitches or mechanical failures
Transmission lock-ups preventing gear changes
Engine stalling without warning
Several high-profile recalls and lawsuits have centered around these issues.
When a vehicle defect causes an accident, determining liability can be complex. Potentially liable parties include:
Vehicle manufacturers
Parts suppliers
Dealerships or service centers
Hiring an experienced car accident lawyer near me or vehicle collision attorney is essential to investigate your case thoroughly. Legal action often requires collecting evidence such as:
Recall notices and manufacturer communications
Expert mechanical analyses
Accident reconstruction reports
Filing a product liability lawsuit can hold negligent parties accountable and help victims recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
Myth 1: “If I was driving, the accident is always my fault.”
Truth: Even if you were driving, a defect that caused or contributed to the accident could mean you have a valid legal claim.
Myth 2: “A recall means I can’t sue.”
Truth: Recalls often strengthen a case by proving the manufacturer knew about the defect but failed to act promptly.
Q1: What are the most common vehicle defects that lead to accidents?
A1: Common vehicle defects include faulty brakes, tire blowouts, airbag malfunctions, steering system issues, and electrical failures. These problems can cause drivers to lose control and lead to serious injuries or fatalities.
Q2: How can I tell if my car accident was caused by a vehicle defect?
A2: If your vehicle felt different before the crash—such as sluggish brakes, unexpected acceleration, or steering problems—a defect may be to blame. A qualified mechanic or accident reconstruction expert can investigate and determine the cause.
Q3: Who is responsible if a defective vehicle caused my accident?
A3: Liability could rest with the vehicle manufacturer, parts supplier, dealership, or even a repair shop. An experienced car accident attorney can help identify who’s at fault and hold them accountable.
Q4: What should I do after an accident if I suspect a defect?
A4: If you believe a vehicle defect played a role in your accident, take these steps right away:
Do not repair or dispose of the vehicle.
Take photos of the damage.
Document the incident and your injuries.
Seek medical attention.
Contact a personal injury lawyer immediately.
Q5: Can I sue the car manufacturer if a defect caused the crash?
A5: Yes. You may be eligible to file a product liability lawsuit. These cases require evidence of the defect, expert analysis, and legal support, all of which Inkelaar Law can provide.
Q6: What compensation can I recover in a defective vehicle claim?
A6: Potential compensation includes:
Lost wages
Pain and suffering
Property damage
Punitive damages (if gross negligence is proven)
Q7: How can Inkelaar Law help me after a defect-related accident?
A7: Our firm has decades of experience in product liability and personal injury law. We’ll handle every part of your case—from investigation to negotiation or trial—and work to recover the maximum compensation you deserve.
Q8: How do I schedule a free consultation with an attorney at Inkelaar Law?
A8: Call us directly or book an appointment. We offer free, no-obligation case reviews and are ready to help you understand your legal options after a vehicle defect accident.
Hiring a qualified personal injury lawyer or attorney for automobile accidents provides many benefits:
Professional evaluation of your case’s merits
Collection of evidence and expert testimony
Skilled negotiation with insurance companies
Litigation and trial representation if necessary
When searching for a car wreck lawyer near me or motor vehicle accident lawyers near me, choose one with proven experience in product liability and vehicle accident litigation.
Imagine a driver losing control of their SUV while approaching an intersection because of a sudden failure in the braking system. An investigation reveals that the brake lines had a manufacturing defect that caused them to corrode prematurely and leak fluid. Although the vehicle’s manufacturer had issued a recall, the driver never received a notice. With the help of an experienced vehicle accident attorney, the driver is able to file a product liability claim. The case results in a significant settlement, highlighting the importance of holding manufacturers accountable when safety defects go unaddressed.
If you suspect a vehicle defect caused your accident, take these steps immediately:
Seek medical attention — even if injuries seem minor.
Document the scene — take photos, gather witness contacts, and obtain a police report.
Preserve the vehicle — avoid repairing or disposing of the vehicle until advised by your attorney.
Consult an attorney — contact an auto accident lawyer Omaha or a reputable car crash law firm.
While some defects are beyond your control, you can reduce risk by:
Maintaining your vehicle regularly and keeping detailed records
Responding promptly to recalls and manufacturer notices
Conducting visual inspections for warning signs
Never ignoring dashboard warning lights or unusual vehicle behavior
At Inkelaar Law, we are dedicated to protecting your rights after a vehicle defect causes an accident. With decades of combined experience, our auto accident attorney Omaha NE and car accident lawyer Omaha teams provide:
Personalized legal strategies tailored to your case
Aggressive representation to maximize your compensation
Clear and transparent communication throughout the process
Whether you need a free consultation or specialized advice, our car accident lawyer specialists are ready to help.
Omaha, NE
Lincoln, NE
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Our legal team includes trusted Nebraska personal injury attorneys, motor vehicle accident lawyers, and specialists in commercial truck and motorcycle injury cases. No matter your situation, we’re here to help you recover what you deserve.
Don’t let a manufacturer’s negligence derail your life. Contact Inkelaar Law for a free case review today. Let our experienced lawyers near me for car accidents or car accident attorneys Omaha NE fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
Call or message us, or book an appointment to get started.
Inkelaar Law — Fighting for the Justice You Deserve.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational purposes only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation. For specific legal advice, please consult with an attorney who is qualified to handle your case.
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