Dealership Accountability for Car Accident Injuries
When you are in the market for a car, whether new or used, you want one that offers the best value for your money, while being dependable in terms of mechanics and safety. While
car accidents and injuries often are the result of driver error or recklessness, there are situations in which the car itself is to blame. If you are considering buying a vehicle, it is important to be aware of potential safety issues that could arise, as well as the ways in which your car dealer or manufacturer could be held liable in the event of an accident.
Vehicle Defects That Pose a Risk to Driver Safety
Each year, millions of accidents take place on the roads, resulting in serious and potentially life threatening injuries for drivers and their passengers. While the majority of these accidents are the result of reckless driving behaviors, such as speeding, disregarding traffic laws, and drunk driving, a number of accidents each year are caused by the vehicle itself. Common vehicle related issues that contribute to car accidents and injuries include the following:
- Problems with tires and wheel systems
- Problems with brake failure
- Steering and vehicle suspension issues
- Issues with the engine or transmission in the vehicle
While the above issues are often the result of poor car maintenance, there are issues that can present dangers that occur due to defects in the way the car was made. Car recalls issued by the NHTSA are unfortunately common, affecting millions of cars over the past years. Recent recalls have involved exploding airbags, defects in wiring, acceleration issues and more, all of which have the potential to put drivers’ lives in jeopardy.
For a free legal consultation, call 803-222-2222
Holding Your Car Dealer Liable For Injuries
In cases where you suffered injuries as the result of a vehicle malfunction, there are situations in which you may be able to hold the dealer liable. Newer cars may fall under a warranty to correct any issues, while used cars are generally sold ‘as is’, but neither lets the dealer off the hook for knowingly selling a customer a car that is unsafe.
If the dealer knew about the potential dangers, or should have been aware of the problem, they may be held liable for damages under the legal theory of negligence. Likewise, car manufacturers can be made to pay compensation for injuries that occur as the result of defects, particularly if they were aware of the problem are failed to issue a recall. Before buying a car, you can search to see if the vehicle model was subject to recall through the NHTSA website SaferCar.gov, which allows you to search by VIN number, as well as by the make of the car.
Unfortunately, despite your precautions, you could still drive an unsafe car. To avoid assuming responsibility for this, the dealer might try to shift the blame to another party. In such situations, when no one seems to be at fault, but everyone accuses everybody else, it is time to act because someone has to pay for your injuries, pain, and suffering. The best choice is to get a car accident lawyer Florence SC to get to the bottom of things and fight for your rights. After conducting a thorough investigation regarding your case, your attorney will recommend you the best legal options you have toward recovery.
Get Help from a South Carolina Car Accident Attorney
When you or someone you care about is injured as the result of a car accident, contact Anastopoulo Law Firm right away. Our experienced South Carolina car accident attorneys understand the serious injuries that can result from these accidents and the impacts they can have on nearly every aspect of your life. We can advise you on how to hold accountable parties responsible, so that you can get the compensation you deserve. Call us today for a consultation on your case.
Call or text 803-222-2222 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form