Failures in vital components could lead to auto product liability

On behalf of Ortega Law Firm posted in auto product liability on Thursday, March 21, 2019.

When the assembly-line automobile was first introduced, the possibility of a mechanical failure may not have been a serious issue since the machines were relatively simple. Advances in technology may have led to increased performance capabilities, but they have also led to increased complexities in computer-assisted engines that incorporate more components that could fail without warning. Arizona residents who have been injured or sustained significant property damages due to a faulty vehicle component may have grounds to pursue an auto product liability claim.

General Motors recently announced another recall affecting more than 26,770 models across several product lines. The recall is due to failure of the power steering unit. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, motorists may experience a sudden loss of the car's electrically assisted power steering, which could lead to a collision. Though the problem may seem to correct itself after the engine is shut down and restarted, it can occur again without warning.

Drivers may receive a dashboard warning about a loss of assisted steering, but if this warning message appears while the vehicle is in motion, a motorist will experience increased difficulty in controlling the vehicle. It is unknown whether any accidents can be attributed to this defect. The recall includes models from the company's Camaro, Cadillac and Corvette lines from the years 2016-2018.

This is the most recent recall concerning this issue, which required previous recalls of more than 1.7 million vehicles. The company has blamed the problem on a manufacturing error that will be corrected through the replacement of the faulty component. The NHTSA operates a website that vehicle owners can access to check for open recalls on their particular vehicle by using the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Those who have suffered a serious injury that can be attributed to a faulty vehicle may pursue compensation for their losses via an auto product liability claim filed in Arizona's civil court system.