Not every car accident in Chicago is due to driver negligence, such as speeding. Sometimes, the issue lies with the vehicle itself. A mechanical defect in some circumstances can cause a driver to lose control and cause a crash leading to serious injuries.
Mechanical issues can happen suddenly and without warning, putting everyone on the road at risk. Learning about how these failures occur and who may be responsible can help you protect your rights if you’re ever involved in such an accident. Speak with an experienced car accident lawyer in Chicago today for legal guidance and support.
Common Types of Mechanical Failures
A vehicle’s safety depends on many complex components working together. When even one part fails, the results can be catastrophic. Some of the most common mechanical problems that lead to crashes include:
- Brake failure
- Tire blowouts
- Steering system defects
- Suspension failure
- Transmission failure
- Engine problems
- Electrical issues
Sometimes, these problems develop because the car owner failed to maintain the vehicle properly. Other times, the issue traces back to the manufacturer or a negligent repair shop.
Who Can Be Held Liable for a Mechanical Failure Accident?
Determining liability in a mechanical failure accident often requires an in-depth investigation. Depending on the circumstances, several parties could be held responsible:
- The vehicle owner may be liable if they neglected routine maintenance
- A repair shop could be responsible if a recent repair was performed incorrectly
- The parts manufacturer may be at fault if a production defect caused the failure
- The vehicle manufacturer can be liable under product liability law if the defect originated in the car’s design and assembly process
Under Illinois law, accident victims can recover compensation from multiple parties in certain cases.
Proving a Mechanical Failure Case
Mechanical defect cases are often more complex than other types of car accidents because they rely heavily on technical evidence. To succeed, your legal team may need to show that:
- A mechanical defect or failure occurred
- The defect directly caused or contributed to the crash
- The defendant had a legal duty and failed to meet that duty
The exact legal elements that must be proven could vary depending on the type of case in question. Preserving the vehicle after the crash is critical, as it can serve as a key piece of evidence in proving liability.
Damages Available After a Mechanical Failure Accident
If a mechanical defect caused your crash, you may be entitled to compensation for both economic and non-economic damages. These may include:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages and reduced earning potential
- Property damage and vehicle repairs
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Reduced quality of life
In some cases, if the at-fault party acted egregiously, punitive damages may also be available to punish the wrongdoing.
Contact a Chicago Car Accident Lawyer With Meyers & Flowers
Were you involved in a car accident due to a mechanical failure in Chicago, IL? A personal injury lawyer in Chicago from Meyers & Flowers is here to help. Our Chicago car accident attorneys have over 100 years of combined experience and have won over $6 billion for our deserving clients to date. We’ll work just as hard on your case if you hire us, so call (630) 232-6333 for a free consultation today.