Buffalo Auto Defect Injury Lawyer

Car accidents caused by vehicle defects are not just unexpected, they are deeply traumatic and often preventable. When a manufacturing flaw or design error in a car leads to an accident, the consequences can be life-altering. If you or a loved one has suffered injuries in a crash involving a vehicle malfunction, a Buffalo auto defect injury lawyer at Brown Chiari LLP can help you pursue justice and fair compensation through a product liability claim.

At our firm, we represent clients across Buffalo and western New York who have been seriously injured due to defective parts, unsafe vehicle systems, and other product failures. These cases frequently involve malfunctioning airbags, faulty brakes, tire blowouts, steering defects, and seat belt failures, each capable of causing severe or fatal injuries during a collision. Unlike accidents caused by another driver’s negligence, these cases fall under product liability law, which focuses on holding manufacturers, designers, and distributors responsible for releasing unsafe vehicles into the marketplace.

We offer a free consultation and handle every case on a contingency fee basis. That means you pay nothing unless we successfully recover compensation for your injuries.

Understanding Product Liability in Auto Defect Cases

In New York, product liability law protects consumers from dangerous products, including defective vehicles and vehicle components. When an automaker or parts manufacturer sells a car that is unreasonably dangerous, and that defect causes a crash or worsens injuries, they may be held legally accountable. Product liability cases involving auto defects often fall into one of three categories: design defects, manufacturing defects, or failure to provide adequate warnings or instructions.

Design defects involve flaws in the way a vehicle or component was engineered. For example, a high-profile SUV model might be structurally prone to rollovers. Manufacturing defects, on the other hand, occur during the production process, such as improperly installed brakes or airbags that fail to deploy. In some cases, automakers fail to warn consumers about known hazards, putting thousands of lives at risk before a recall is issued.

Our legal team thoroughly investigates how the defect occurred, whether the issue was known or preventable, and which parties in the supply chain may be liable. Because these cases often involve large auto manufacturers and insurance companies, having an experienced product liability attorney is critical.

Injuries Caused by Defective Vehicles

Injuries from auto defects tend to be severe, especially when critical safety systems fail. Common injuries include spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, and internal trauma. Even when the initial crash seems survivable, a failed airbag, locked seatbelt, or sudden tire detachment can turn a manageable situation into a catastrophic event.

Victims of these accidents often face long hospital stays, extensive rehabilitation, and emotional trauma. Beyond physical pain, they may experience financial strain from medical bills, lost wages, and reduced earning capacity. In fatal cases, surviving family members may have grounds for a wrongful death lawsuit.

At Brown Chiari LLP, our attorneys fight to recover compensation that fully addresses both immediate and long-term damages. This includes not just current medical expenses, but future medical bills, lost income, and the toll on your overall well-being. In some cases, we also pursue punitive damages to hold manufacturers accountable for gross negligence.

Building a Strong Legal Claim

Auto defect injury cases require a detailed investigation, expert testimony, and legal experience navigating product liability claims. Our attorneys begin by reviewing accident reports, medical records, and vehicle history. We often consult with crash reconstruction experts and engineers to evaluate how the defect contributed to the crash or worsened the outcome.

Once we identify the defect and the liable parties, we build a claim that seeks compensation for all of your damages. These may include medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and the costs of future care. If the insurance company denies your claim or offers a low settlement, we are prepared to file a personal injury lawsuit and go to trial if necessary.

Because New York law limits the time you have to file a product liability claim—usually three years from the date of injury—it is essential to act quickly. The sooner we begin gathering evidence and preserving your legal rights, the stronger your case will be.

Why Choose Brown Chiari LLP

Brown Chiari LLP is a trusted name in personal injury litigation throughout Buffalo and New York. Our legal team has decades of experience handling complex product liability cases, including those involving auto defects, dangerous consumer products, and medical device failures. We are proud to represent individuals—not large corporations—and we fight for those who have been harmed by negligence and unsafe products.

We provide each client with personalized legal representation, straightforward communication, and a commitment to securing the maximum compensation available. Whether your injuries were caused by a defective braking system, a failed seatbelt, or a tire that exploded at highway speed, we are ready to hold the responsible parties accountable and protect your legal rights.

Learn more about Buffalo auto defect injury lawyer services. Call Brown Chiari LLP at (716) 681-7190 to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation. You can also reach us anytime through our contact page. Let us help you take the first step toward justice and recovery.

Buffalo Auto Defect Injury Lawyer FAQs

What should I do if I believe a car defect caused my accident?

Seek medical attention immediately and retain all documentation related to the accident. Then contact an experienced attorney who can investigate the cause of the crash and determine whether a defect played a role.

How do I know if I have a product liability case?

If your injuries were caused or worsened by a defect in your vehicle or one involved in the crash, you may have a valid claim. Common signs include unexpected system failures, failed safety features, or vehicles involved in recalls.

Who can be held responsible for an auto defect?

Liable parties may include the vehicle manufacturer, a component supplier, or even a dealership if they sold a known defective vehicle. An attorney will help identify all parties who may be at fault.

What compensation can I recover in an auto defect injury case?

You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term care. In some cases, punitive damages may also be available if gross negligence is involved.

Is there a deadline to file a lawsuit in New York?

Yes. In most cases, you have three years from the date of the accident to file a product liability lawsuit in New York. It’s critical to act as soon as possible to protect your rights.