Dangerous Types of Auto Defects

When we get behind the wheel of a car, we trust that it will get us safely to our destination. We trust that the manufacturers have done their due diligence and that every component has been rigorously tested and meets the highest safety standards. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. From faulty brakes to defective airbags, auto defects can put drivers, passengers, and passersby at risk of severe injury. 

Faulty Brake Systems

Your car’s braking system is one of its most critical safety features, but faulty brakes are an all-too-common type of auto defect. These issues can arise from defective brake pads, leaking brake fluid, improperly installed components, or flaws in the vehicle’s brake design.

When brakes fail or malfunction, you may be unable to stop in time, potentially leading to a severe and devastating crash. Any unusual sounds, smells, or sensations when braking should be checked out immediately by a mechanic. This can be especially dangerous with trucks as they are heavier and take more time to break. In the event this happened to you, reach out to our truck accident lawyers in St. George today.

Defective Airbags

Airbags save lives every day by cushioning vehicle occupants during crashes. However, when an airbag is defective, it can cause more harm than good. Airbags may fail to deploy when needed, deploy with too much force, or even deploy when there hasn’t been an accident. 

The Takata airbag recall, which affected millions of vehicles worldwide, showcased how dangerous these devices can be. The defective airbags contained unstable components that could cause them to explode with excessive force, sending metal shrapnel into vehicle occupants.

Tire Defects and Blowouts

Your tires are your car’s only point of contact with the road, so they must be in good condition. Tire defects like improper installation or thin and weak spots in the rubber can lead to sudden blowouts. Losing a tire while driving is a terrifying experience that makes the vehicle extremely difficult to control. Make sure to inspect your tires regularly for excessive or uneven wear, bulges, cracking, or foreign objects embedded in the tread. 

Steering System Issues

Problems with your car’s steering system are some of the scariest auto defects because they rob you of the ability to control your vehicle’s direction. These defects can make steering dangerously loose, overly stiff, or completely unresponsive. Difficulty turning, vibrations in the steering wheel, clunking noises when turning, or leaking fluid are all red flags that something is wrong with your steering system. 

Electrical System Issues

Modern cars are full of complex electronics and wiring that control everything from the engine to the air conditioning. Electrical issues stemming from manufacturing defects can lead to sudden stalling, unintended acceleration, malfunctioning lights, or even vehicle fires. The resulting accidents can be devastating.

Seeking Justice After an Auto Defect Accident in Utah

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured by an auto defect in Utah, you have the right to take legal action. You can file a lawsuit against and seek compensation from the manufacturer, the parts supplier, or even the dealership, depending on the cause of your accident. 

These companies often have legal teams ready to fight these claims, so you need a St. George auto accident attorney on your side to level the playing field. Your lawyer will work tirelessly to prove that the defect caused your accident and that you are entitled to a fair settlement. Schedule a free consultation and begin your legal journey today.