Rochester Defective Vehicle Lawyer

When a vehicle defect causes a crash, the consequences can be devastating. From broken bones to traumatic brain injuries or even death, the injuries that result from unsafe cars and trucks can impact every part of your life. If you or a loved one has been injured because of a defective vehicle, a Rochester defective vehicle lawyer can help you take legal action and pursue compensation.

At Brown Chiari LLP, we represent injured consumers across Rochester who have suffered harm due to defective products in motor vehicles. Whether the issue stemmed from a design defect, a manufacturing defect, or improper instructions, you may be entitled to hold the vehicle manufacturer or other responsible parties accountable through a product liability claim.

How Vehicle Defects Cause Accidents

A defect in a vehicle can affect performance, safety systems, or overall stability. These problems may go unnoticed until they result in an accident. When a crash occurs due to a vehicle issue—such as an engine fire, tire blowout, or steering failure—the manufacturer or distributor may be liable for the accident caused.

Common types of auto defect cases include:

• Defective airbags or seatbelts
  
• Brake system failures, including malfunctioning brakes
  
• Flawed fuel systems that increase fire risk
  
• Electronic malfunctions or sudden unintended acceleration
  
• Rollovers due to poor vehicle design
  

If your accident was caused by any of these or similar issues, you may have grounds for a product liability case under New York law.

Who Can Be Held Responsible for a Defective Product?

Many different parties can contribute to a vehicle defect. Depending on the circumstances, the following may be held responsible:

• Auto manufacturers
  
• Parts suppliers
  
• Dealerships or distributors
  
• Third-party service or repair shops
  

These companies are expected to produce and distribute safe, properly functioning motor vehicles. When they fail in this duty, injured individuals have the right to seek compensation.

Types of Product Defects

Defective vehicle cases generally fall into one of the following categories:

• Design defect: The product’s design is inherently dangerous, even when manufactured correctly.
  
• Manufacturing defect: A flaw occurs during production or assembly, resulting in a dangerous product.
  
• Marketing defect: The company failed to warn consumers of known risks or provided improper instructions.
  

If you were hurt due to any of these, it’s important to speak with an attorney as soon as possible to begin your personal injury claim.

Injuries Caused by Defective Vehicles

A vehicle failure at high speeds can lead to serious and sometimes life-threatening injuries. Victims often suffer:

• Spinal cord injuries
  
• Burns and lacerations
  
• Head and brain trauma
  
• Broken bones
  
• Internal injuries
  

In the most tragic cases, families may pursue a wrongful death claim if a loved one was lost due to a defective vehicle. Our firm has helped many clients recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, emotional suffering, and more.

Filing a Product Liability Claim in Rochester

Product liability laws in New York allow injured parties to file claims against manufacturers, sellers, or other parties responsible for unsafe consumer products. To file a claim, you must demonstrate that the product was defective, that the defect caused your injury, and that you were using the product as intended.

At Brown Chiari LLP, our attorneys will help you gather the necessary evidence, consult with experts, and build a strong case against the manufacturer or distributor. We handle all types of product liability claims, including those involving cars, trucks, and other motor vehicles.

We can help you recover:

• Medical bills and future treatment costs
  
• Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
  
• Pain and emotional suffering
  
• Cost of a replacement vehicle
  
• Compensation for permanent disabilities or disfigurement
  

We fight for maximum compensation and won’t hesitate to take your case to court if a fair settlement isn’t offered.

Why Choose Our Rochester Product Liability Lawyers

Brown Chiari LLP has decades of experience handling complex defective product cases, including those involving unsafe vehicles. Our legal team is skilled in identifying defects, navigating the recall process, and pursuing claims under state and federal product liability laws.

We offer a free consultation to review your case and explain your legal rights. If we take your case, we work on a contingency fee basis—so you won’t pay unless we recover compensation for you.

Learn more about your legal options from a Rochester defective vehicle lawyer. 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.

FAQ: Rochester Defective Vehicle Lawyer

How do I know if my accident was caused by a vehicle defect?

If your vehicle behaved unpredictably—such as sudden braking, stalling, or steering failure—there may be an underlying defect. A lawyer can help you investigate whether the product’s design or manufacturing process contributed to the crash.

Can I still file a claim if the vehicle was recalled?

Yes. A recall does not prevent you from pursuing legal action. In fact, it may support your claim by showing the manufacturer was aware of the defect.

What if I didn’t own the vehicle involved in the accident?

You can still pursue a product liability case if you were injured while riding in or operating a defective vehicle, even if you were not the owner.

How long do I have to file a product liability claim in New York?

New York law sets a deadline (statute of limitations) for filing product liability claims. It’s important to contact an attorney as soon as possible to avoid losing your right to seek compensation.

What kind of compensation can I recover in a defective vehicle case?

You may be eligible to recover damages for medical expenses, lost income, cost of a replacement vehicle, emotional distress, and other accident-related losses.