STEERING & HANDLING DEFECT ATTORNEYS

REPRESENTING VICTIMS INJURED BY STEERING AND HANDLING DEFECTS

Many vehicles, particularly newer cars, have electronic systems that assist with steering, handling, and braking. These functions are usually controlled automatically by our vehicle whether you are aware of them or not. Should these systems malfunction, it may suddenly be far more difficult to safely steer or brake your vehicle, potentially resulting in a loss of control, serious personal injury, and even death.

Major automobile manufacturers have issued many recalls related to steering assist and braking functions over the last decade. If you were involved in an accident that may have been caused by these defects, turn to Potts Law Firm. Our steering and handling defect lawyers are happy to investigate your case, determine whether you have a claim, and help you understand your legal options. You may be entitled to compensation for your losses, and we have recovered over a billion dollars for our clients. Our team understands how to strategically approach these cases and will work quickly to deliver the best possible result.

We are prepared to assist you wherever you are, so call (888) 420-1299 or contact us online to schedule a free initial consultation. Same-day appointments are available, and our firm offers services in English and Spanish.

WHAT ARE THE CAUSES AND DANGERS OF STEERING AND HANDLING DEFECTS?

You may not realize how much you rely on the power steering system that is likely installed in your vehicle. These functions allow you to more comfortably operate your vehicle and avoid dangers when they appear. Power steering functionality can in some cases fail, especially if one or more vehicle components are defective.

Some of the most common causes of power steering system failure include:

  • Broken belts
  • Defective control arms
  • Defective wheel assemblies
  • Contaminated hydraulic fluid
  • Defective suspension bushings
  • Improper hydraulic fluid levels

Without power steering, you will likely find it much tougher to safely navigate around obstacles and bring your vehicle to a stop. Your steering wheel will be less reliable and responsive to your inputs, meaning you may not be able to swerve to avoid an oncoming obstacle or maneuver through a sharp turn.

System failures can occur suddenly when steering and handling components are defective, meaning you may lose full control while you are traveling at high speeds on crowded roadways. This makes the possibility of a collision far more likely. Single-car accidents are also possible, as an inability to turn or stop could cause your vehicle to roll over after hitting a curb or ram into a stationary object.

COMMON INJURIES IN ACCIDENTS INVOLVING STEERING AND HANDLING DEFECTS

Defensive driving becomes impractical when you cannot dependably steer or stop your vehicle. Your vehicle will instead be prone to odd and often unpredictable movements. Other drivers will not be immediately aware of another vehicle’s loss of control and may consequently struggle to anticipate and avoid a swerving car. Head-on collisions, sideswipes, and rollovers are all unfortunately common outcomes of steering and handling defects, and all types of accidents can cause catastrophic injuries.

Our steering and handling defect attorneys can represent you if you suffered any of the following injuries in an accident:

  • Broken bones and/or fractures
  • Internal injuries and/or internal bleeding
  • Traumatic brain injuries
  • Burns, scarring, and/or disfigurement
  • Paralysis and/or spinal cord injuries

WHO IS LIABLE FOR STEERING AND HANDLING DEFECTS?

Typically, the automobile manufacturer is liable for any injuries that defects in their vehicles cause. If your power steering system failed due to a demonstrable defect, you can likely sue your vehicle manufacturer to hold them accountable and obtain compensation.

Defects typically arise during the design process, where some manufacturers attempt to cut corners and save money by using inadequate materials or flawed (but cheaper) designs. Design-level defects impact all vehicles that use the flawed design and can trigger recalls when discovered. Defects can also appear during manufacturing, though these types of problems only tend to affect a small number of vehicles.

In some cases, a maintenance or installation team may be liable for steering and handling issues. Steering and handling systems can sometimes malfunction due to a lack of maintenance, and a qualified auto repair shop or inspector should catch these issues before they fail.

WHAT DAMAGES CAN I RECOVER IN A STEERING AND HANDLING DEFECT LAWSUIT?

If you suffered injuries due to a steering and handling defect, you may be able to recover monetary and non-monetary damages. However, you must take legal action before the applicable statute of limitations expires. The deadline is tied to the date of your accident, and the amount of time you get depends on the state. Some states offer more time than others, though you will be barred from recovering anything if you wait too long.

Our steering and handling defect lawyers will work to secure compensation for all losses, including:

  • Past, current, and future medical expenses
  • Property damage
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Disability
  • Lost wages and earning capacity
  • Pain and suffering
  • Loss of consortium
  • Disfigurement

If you lost control of your car in the moments before an accident and suspect a power steering system defect may be to blame, call (888) 420-1299 or contact us online.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

FAQ

Q: Why do I need an attorney?

To win a product liability lawsuit, you must be able to prove the existence of a defect that made your vehicle unreasonably dangerous. You must also show that the dangerous defect directly caused your injuries. You cannot prevail in a product liability lawsuit if you did not actually sustain any injuries, even if your steering and handling systems failed and created a dangerous situation.

Automobile manufacturers devote extensive resources to fighting product liability lawsuits. You will be up against aggressive litigators who are motivated to do whatever it takes to avoid accountability. Hiring an attorney who frequently handles auto defect cases gives you an advocate who understands how to combat strategies used by manufacturers to escape liability. Our legal professionals at Potts Law Firm will investigate your crash, prepare your case, ensure you do not miss any deadlines, and work to protect your interests every step of the way. Our goal is to get you the compensation you deserve as quickly as possible.

Q: Can you settle my steering and handling defect case before a trial?

We recognize that you want your case to be resolved as fast as possible. To that end, we make every effort to negotiate a settlement that adequately covers your losses. Sometimes, manufacturers refuse to negotiate in good faith, forcing a trial. Either way, we are prepared to offer comprehensive and dependable representation.

Q: Where will my steering and handling defect lawsuit be filed?

Generally, we will file a steering and handling defect lawsuit in the state where the accident occurred. There are some circumstances where we may file in the state the automobile manufacturer is headquartered in or where the defective power steering system component was designed or manufactured.

Q: What do you charge for representation in steering and handling defect cases?

Our firm takes steering and handling defect cases on a contingency basis, so you pay nothing out-of-pocket and owe us nothing upfront. We will advance all case-related expenses, and you will only pay legal fees if we win or negotiate an agreeable settlement.

Q: How can I protect myself from power steering failure?

It is always a good idea to find out if your vehicle is part of a recall. Visit https://vinrcl.safercar.gov/vin/faq.jsp to check if your vehicle has been recalled due to known steering and handling issues. Your vehicle could experience steering and handling problems even if it is not part of a recall, however. You should monitor your car for warning signs, such as unexplained shaking or a lack of responsiveness when using your steering wheel. If you suspect anything is wrong, it is extremely important that you get your vehicle to a qualified auto shop as soon as possible.

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Michael Bins has been extremely helpful in helping us to navigate a situation with an insurance claim on a commercial property. He’s gone above and beyond in moving our case toward a positive resolution that we’re satisfied with.

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The Potts Law Firm answered all of my numerous questions in layman’s terms which is what I needed. I was able to lie back & heal from my injuries knowing full well that my obligations were being handled appropriately.

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At Potts Law Firm, we believe the details of your case matter and we work tirelessly to pursue just compensation on your behalf. Our team of experienced attorneys and staff are backed with the resources they need to win regardless of the obstacles your case faces. We do this all while keeping an open line of communication with you.

For assistance from our experienced legal team, please contact us online or call (888) 420-1299 today.

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