Motorcycle Accidents Involving Defects and Product Liabilities

Sometimes, an accident is not the fault of the motorcyclist or other road users involved in the collision. Instead, the motorcycle manufacturer is to blame for producing products that pose significant life-threatening risks to users. In these cases, a manufacturer may be liable for injuries caused by its defective product.

If you, or your loved one, have been injured in a motorcycle accident and believe it was neither your fault nor other motorists’, you can bring a manufacturing defect and product liability claim against the manufacturer.

If you are unsure whether to pursue this type of case, contact the Pensacola motorcycle accident lawyers at Stevenson Klotz Injury Attorneys at (850) 542-2716. We will review your case free of charge and answer questions you might have about filing a product liability lawsuit against a motorcycle manufacturer.

Motorcycle Parts That May Be Defective and How They Can Be Dangerous

Some motorcycle parts are more susceptible to defectiveness than others. Here are the most common ones:

Brakes: Motorcycle brakes often fail because of poor design, improper maintenance, or misuse. When undetected early, a defective brake can cause the motorcyclist to ram into oncoming traffic, lose control, or go off the road, leading to severe injury or death.
Exhaust systems: Exhaust systems are also vulnerable to defects. They may fail because of faulty materials, improper installation, or lack of proper maintenance. Such a defect may lead to significant engine damage, costing you a lot of money in repair or replacement.
Tires: Tires are another area where manufacturers can make mistakes. Poorly designed tires can lead to tire failures, causing the motorcyclist to lose control or even roll over on the road, which can cause life-altering or life-ending crashes.
Wheels: Wheels are also subject to defects. A poorly designed wheel can become loose during use, causing the rider to fall off the bike. This could happen when the rim becomes worn out or bent or when the wheel comes apart from the frame.
In addition, some motorcycle components are made from inherently dangerous materials. For instance, motorcycles contain metal frames that could become hot during use, causing burns and other serious injuries.

If you, or someone close to you, have suffered severe injuries because of a motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain & suffering, and other damages. Contact us today to discuss your legal options with an experienced attorney at Stevenson Klotz Injury Lawyers.

How is a Defective Part Proven to be the Cause of an Accident?

In a manufacturing defect or product liability claim, you (the plaintiff) are responsible for proving that a specific defect was the root cause of your accident. But given the complex nature of such a matter, it’s challenging to pursue it alone. Therefore, working with an experienced motorcycle accident and product liability attorney is in your best interest.

To hold a manufacturer liable for a defective product, your lawyer will help prove the following:

You were riding the motorcycle as intended — safely and cautiously
The defect was present when riding, and it caused the motorcycle to malfunction
Your injuries/damages are directly caused by the defect

You must show that the manufacturer failed to exercise reasonable care in designing, testing, inspecting, and/or maintaining the product. You also show that the defect existed before the product left the manufacturer’s hands.

Determining whether (or not) there were any warning signs or labels attached to the motorcycle parts also adds weight to your claim.

How Can a Manufacturer Be Held Liable for a Motorcycle Accident?

Manufacturers handle the safety of products under strict federal regulations. These rules require manufacturers to ensure their products meet specific safety standards. When a product fails to comply with these standards, it is defective, and an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer can help you hold the manufacturer accountable.

Here’s how an attorney can help you receive the compensation you deserve:

In-depth investigation: Your lawyer will investigate the matter conclusively to determine whether a manufacturing defect caused or contributed to your accident. They will gather all available evidence, including documents, photographs, witness statements, and expert testimony.
Legal analysis: The attorney will analyze the case thoroughly to identify any potential weaknesses in your case. They will then develop a strategy to overcome these issues and maximize your chances of success. For instance, they will review all relevant documentation and the circumstances of the case to gather every piece of information and support that proves that your damages directly result from the manufacturing defect.
Negotiation: Once the facts have been established, the attorney will negotiate with the defendant’s insurance company to get maximum compensation for your losses.
Bringing a claim: If negotiations fail, the attorney will file suit against the manufacturer. The attorney will represent you throughout the litigation process. They’ll table concrete evidence and argue your case in a civil court to ensure you receive maximum compensation for your losses.
Payment collection: After the judge or jury awards you reasonable compensation for your manufacturing defect damages, your lawyer will collect and transmit the payment to your account as soon as possible.

How Can Motorcyclists Stay Aware of Motorcycle Recalls?

Motorcycle recalls usually happen when the manufacturer discovers a problem with the design or manufacture of a component on the bike. This could be anything from a faulty part to a dangerous flaw.

Sometimes, the manufacturer may issue a recall notice to notify owners about the problem and instruct them to take action immediately.

If you own a motorcycle and want to stay aware of recall notices, here are some tips to keep in mind:

Check out the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission website at www.cpsc.gov. Here, you can find up-to-date information regarding recalled items.
Check out the U.S. Department of Transportation website. This site provides details about recalls, such as what vehicles are affected, when the recall began, and who should contact the manufacturer if they experience problems.
Contact your local dealer if you think you own one of the affected models. They should be able to provide you with more details about the recall.
Keep your eyes peeled for news articles about the recall. There might be a few different outlets reporting on it.

Contact Stevenson Klotz Injury Lawyers Today About Your Motorcycle Accident

At Stevenson Klotz Injury Law Firm, we understand how devastating an injury can be. We know that accidents involving motorcycles can cause severe injuries and even death. That is why our attorneys are committed to fighting for justice for victims of motorcycle defects accidents.

Motorcycle Injury Case FAQs

What is a product liability lawsuit?

A product liability lawsuit is filed by someone injured because of a defective product. A defective product is something that was not manufactured correctly or was made with poor-quality materials.

Do I need a lawyer to help me with my motorcycle accident claims?

You do not need a lawyer to file a personal injury claim, but having a lawyer on your side will make things easier for you. If you decide to go after the negligent party, you’ll also need a lawyer to represent you in court.

Motorcycle Accidents Involving Manufacturing Defects and Product Liabilities