Accidents happen, but sometimes, they’re not just a stroke of bad luck. You might wonder about your rights and options if a defective car part caused your accident. At Morain & Buckelew, LLC, we understand how overwhelming this can be. This blog post aims to shed light on claiming compensation for accidents caused by defective car parts, particularly in Georgia.

Identifying Defective Car Parts

Identifying the faulty car part is crucial in such cases. It could be anything from faulty brakes airbag issues, to defective tires. Establishing that the part was wrong and contributed to the accident is the foundation of your claim. Remember, it’s not about pointing fingers but understanding the facts. Our team at Morain & Buckelew, LLC, is well-versed in investigating such intricacies, ensuring that every aspect of your situation is thoroughly examined.

Georgia’s Product Liability Laws

Georgia’s product liability laws are designed to protect consumers from harm caused by defective or dangerous products. These laws allow individuals injured by such developments to seek compensation from the manufacturers, distributors, or retailers responsible for the development. Here’s a detailed look into the critical aspects of these laws:

1. Types of Product Defects: Georgia recognizes three primary types of product defects: design, manufacturing, and marketing (which include inadequate instructions or failure to warn consumers of potential risks).
   1. Design Defects occur when a product is inherently unsafe due to its design before it is even manufactured.
   2. Manufacturing Defects: These defects occur during the production or assembly of the product.
   3. Marketing Defects: These involve failures in how the product is presented to the consumer, such as insufficient safety warnings or instructions.
2. Strict Liability: Georgia operates under a “strict liability” framework for product liability claims. This means that a manufacturer can be held liable for damages caused by a defective product, regardless of whether the manufacturer was negligent. The plaintiff must prove that the product was terrible, the defect caused the injury, and the product was used as intended.
3. Negligence and Breach of Warranty: Apart from strict liability, plaintiffs may also bring claims under negligence or breach of warranty theories. Negligence claims focus on the manufacturer’s failure to exercise reasonable care in making the product. Breach of warranty claims arises from a failure to fulfill the terms of a promise or representation about the product’s quality or safety.
4. Comparative Negligence: Georgia follows a modified proximate negligence rule. If the injured party is found to be less than 50% responsible for their injuries, they can recover damages. However, their compensation will be reduced by their percentage of fault.
5. Economic and Non-Economic Damages: In product liability cases, plaintiffs can seek economic damages (like medical expenses and lost wages) and non-economic damages (such as pain and suffering).
6. Joint and Several Liability: In cases where multiple parties are responsible, Georgia’s product liability laws determine how liability is divided. This can be complex, especially in cases involving several defendants, like manufacturers and retailers.

The Role of Evidence in Proving Your Claim

Evidence is critical in these situations. Every piece of information helps build a strong case, from the accident report to qualified testimony. Photos, recall notices, or maintenance records can be particularly telling. At Morain & Buckelew, LLC, we emphasize gathering and presenting compelling evidence to support your claim.

Time Limits on Filing Your Claim in Georgia

Timing is critical. Georgia has specific statutes of limitations for filing product liability claims. Missing these deadlines could mean forfeiting your right to compensation. It’s not just about acting quickly; it’s about acting wisely. We ensure your claim is filed timely and correctly, respecting all legal deadlines.

What Can You Claim?

Compensation in defective car part cases can cover various damages, from medical bills and lost wages to pain and suffering. It’s not just about the immediate costs; future implications of the accident are also considered. Our aim at Morain & Buckelew, LLC is to ensure that the compensation reflects the full extent of your losses and suffering.

Morain & Buckelew, LLC,  Your Ally in Defective Car Part Claims

We are here to help! If you’ve been in an accident in Atlanta due to a defective car part, don’t face this complex situation alone. Call us today at (404) 448-3146 or online. At Morain & Buckelew, LLC, we’re committed to providing the guidance and representation you need to secure the compensation you deserve.