No Fee Unless We Win.

Available 24/7 | Se Habla Español

Free Case Review

Navigating Defective Vehicle Accident Claims Nationwide

Not every car accident is caused by driver error. In some cases, the vehicle itself plays a direct role—whether through faulty brakes, defective airbags, or structural failures that make injuries more severe than they should be. These cases introduce an entirely different layer of complexity, involving product liability, manufacturer responsibility, and technical investigation.

At Big Auto Accident Attorneys, we approach defective vehicle cases with a focus on uncovering what actually happened beneath the surface. If you are searching for a defective vehicle accident attorney, it is essential to work with a team that understands how to connect accident claims with product liability issues and build a case accordingly. Call Big Auto Accident Attorneys today to determine whether a vehicle defect played a role in your accident and how to move forward.

man with his hand on his head

When a Vehicle Defect Becomes a Legal Issue

Modern vehicles are designed with numerous safety systems intended to prevent accidents or reduce injury severity. However, when those systems fail, they can create dangerous conditions or make an otherwise survivable crash far more serious.

Defects can range from minor component issues to critical failures involving brakes, steering, airbags, or structural integrity. A defective vehicle case typically arises when:

  • A design flaw makes the vehicle inherently unsafe
  • A manufacturing defect causes a component to fail
  • A safety feature does not perform as intended during a crash
  • A known issue was not properly addressed through recall or repair

In these situations, liability may extend beyond the driver to include manufacturers, suppliers, or other third parties.

Common Types of Vehicle Defects That Lead to Accidents

Vehicle defects can affect nearly every system in a car. Some of the most serious issues involve components that are critical to safe operation. These types of failures can contribute directly to accidents or worsen their outcomes. Examples include:

Brake System Failures

Faulty brakes can prevent a driver from stopping in time, leading to high-impact collisions.

Steering Malfunctions

Loss of steering control can make it impossible to avoid hazards or maintain lane position.

Airbag and Seatbelt Failures

Safety systems that fail to deploy—or deploy incorrectly—can significantly increase injury severity.

Tire and Wheel Defects

Blowouts or structural failures can lead to sudden loss of control.

Electrical and Fuel System Issues

Defects that cause fires or explosions can result in catastrophic injuries.

Background media

Injuries Linked to Defective Vehicle Components

When a defect is involved, injuries are often more severe than expected for the type of crash. There are several common outcomes, including:

  • Head and neck injuries from improper airbag deployment
  • Ejection from a vehicle due to seatbelt failure
  • Burns from fires caused by fuel or electrical defects
  • Internal injuries and fractures from structural collapse

These types of injuries are not uncommon in serious crashes. Data from the National Safety Council motor vehicle injury and fatality statistics shows how frequently severe injuries and fatalities occur in traffic accidents each year—and when a safety system fails, the risk of catastrophic outcomes increases significantly. These injuries can lead to long-term medical needs, reduced earning capacity, and significant lifestyle changes.

blurred car

Don’t let an accident slow you down. Get your life back on track with Big Auto.

Get Your Free Case Review (844) BIG-AUTO

How Defective Vehicles Change the Nature of a Case

Defective vehicle accidents are different from standard collisions because they introduce an additional layer of investigation. These cases often require:

  • Analysis of vehicle design and manufacturing processes
  • Review of recall history and safety bulletins
  • Coordination with technical experts and engineers
  • Identification of multiple potentially liable parties

In many situations, the question is not just what caused the accident, but whether the vehicle performed as it should have under the circumstances.

Who May Be Liable in a Defective Vehicle Case 

Unlike a typical accident claim, liability in these cases may extend to multiple parties. Potentially responsible entities include:

  • Vehicle manufacturers
  • Parts manufacturers or suppliers
  • Dealerships or distributors
  • Maintenance providers in certain circumstances

Establishing liability requires showing that the defect existed and that it directly contributed to the accident or the severity of injuries.

Banner media

Client Reviews What Our Clients Say

5 out of 5 stars

The service provided was super great!! Yesenia was communicative every step of the way and did a fantastic job with following up and keeping me updated!! The entire team was friend...”  

The service provided was super great!! Yesenia was communicative every step of the way and did a fantastic job with following up and keeping me updated!! The entire team was friendly and super helpful! Thank you
Lilhemi
5 out of 5 stars

Im an strong proponent of businesses that excel in customer service. Recently I contacted Big Auto Accident Attorneys, and their representative, Vanessa Arredondo, was exceptional....”  

Im an strong proponent of businesses that excel in customer service. Recently I contacted Big Auto Accident Attorneys, and their representative, Vanessa Arredondo, was exceptional. I had numerous questions, and she patiently addressed each one while offering valuable advice regarding my circumstances. Her empathy and kindness were remarkable, and I made sure to inform my friends to request her assistance should they ever find themselves in a similar situation, such as a car accident.
Nery Aguilr
5 out of 5 stars

This firm has great people who are dedicated to prioritizing their client and in those specific moments that’s what you need. In my case, I spoke with Anjali and she was very thoro...”  

This firm has great people who are dedicated to prioritizing their client and in those specific moments that’s what you need. In my case, I spoke with Anjali and she was very thorough. Highly recommended
Trebor Cordero
5 out of 5 stars

Vanessa is by far the best person I have worked with, the understanding, the compassion and empathy she had was beyond what I expected. I hope to never be in an accident but would ...”  

Vanessa is by far the best person I have worked with, the understanding, the compassion and empathy she had was beyond what I expected. I hope to never be in an accident but would recommend anybody to her. She answer every question always took my call!
Amy Lizette
5 out of 5 stars

Working with Vanessa was a great experience. She took the time to thoroughly explain each step of the process, ensuring we fully understood everything. I highly recommend Vanessa a...”  

Working with Vanessa was a great experience. She took the time to thoroughly explain each step of the process, ensuring we fully understood everything. I highly recommend Vanessa and the team at Big Auto!
Ana Amaya
5 out of 5 stars

My family and I were in a car accident and we needed help. Alma called us right away and gave us all the information we needed. Very helpful and we're really grateful.

Nik MacFarlane
5 out of 5 stars

I'm just starting the process of my case with Big Auto Accident Attorneys but so far it has been a good experience. It wasn't difficult at all to get the process started and the at...”  

I'm just starting the process of my case with Big Auto Accident Attorneys but so far it has been a good experience. It wasn't difficult at all to get the process started and the attorney's that I spoke with seemed genuinely interested in proceeding with my case. I'm looking forward to working with them and achieving a good outcome.
Shawn Gibson
5 out of 5 stars

I highly recommend this law firm. Im satisfied with the outcome of my case. There wasn’t a time my paralegal, Alexis E didn’t answer my calls or return them right away. Alma assist...”  

I highly recommend this law firm. Im satisfied with the outcome of my case. There wasn’t a time my paralegal, Alexis E didn’t answer my calls or return them right away. Alma assisted me with the sign up process. If you’re looking for great results and good customer service contact this firm.
Elijah Santiago
5 out of 5 stars

Highly recommend Big Auto Accident Attorneys! Anjali was great. She is amazing at her job. She kept me informed and answered all my questions.

Arpita Patel
View All Testimonials

The Role of Recalls and Safety Data

Vehicle recalls are one of the clearest indicators that a defect may exist. Federal safety agencies track and publish known issues affecting vehicles, components, and safety systems.

You can review NHTSA vehicle recall data and safety investigations to determine whether a specific make or model has been flagged for defects that could impact performance or crash safety.

Many dangerous defects—such as faulty airbags, brake failures, or wiring issues—have been subject to recalls due to their safety risks. However, not all defects are immediately identified. In some cases, patterns only emerge after multiple incidents, which is why a thorough investigation is critical.

Compensation in Defective Vehicle Accident Cases

Victims of defective vehicle accidents may be entitled to compensation that reflects both the accident and the defect involved. Because manufacturers and insurers often vigorously defend these claims, building a strong, evidence-based case is essential. This may include:

Economic Damages

  • Medical expenses and future treatment
  • Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
  • Property damage

Non-Economic Damages

  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress
  • Loss of enjoyment of life

Wrongful Death Damages

In fatal cases, surviving family members may pursue compensation for financial and emotional losses.

Nationwide Network · Local Firepower Our National Team

Nic Edgson

Nic Edgson

CEO & Managing Attorney

Read Nic’s  Bio
Lorraine Juarez Baudouin

Lorraine Juarez Baudouin

Attorney

Read Lorraine’s  Bio
Harrison Blase

Harrison Blase

COO & CFO

Read Harrison’s  Bio
Vanessa Arredondo

Vanessa Arredondo

Intake Paralegal

Read Vanessa’s  Bio
Alexis Escobar

Alexis Escobar

Paralegal

Read Alexis’s  Bio
Laura Ruhl

Laura Ruhl

Compliance Lawyer

Read Laura’s  Bio
Bernardo Valle

Bernardo Valle

Director of Intake and Client Success

Read Bernardo’s  Bio
Anjali Chopra

Anjali Chopra

Operations Analyst

Read Anjali’s  Bio
View Our Team

How Big Auto Builds Defective Vehicle Cases

At Big Auto Accident Attorneys, we take a structured approach to cases involving defective vehicles, focusing on both the accident itself and the underlying cause. Proving causation is one of the most critical—and complex—parts of these cases.

Investigating Causation

We work to determine whether a defect caused or contributed to the crash or injuries.

Reviewing Safety Data and Recalls

In addition to recalls, we analyze reports submitted by other drivers through tools like NHTSA vehicle safety complaint reporting systems, which can reveal patterns of failure across similar vehicles.

Coordinating Expert Analysis

We align cases with professionals who can evaluate mechanical failures and design flaws.

Building a Multi-Party Strategy

We identify all potentially responsible parties and structure the claim accordingly.

Background media
profile media

Start your free case review now

Free. Confidential. No obligation.

This field is required.
This field is required.
This field is required.
This field is required.
This field is required.
By clicking “Submit Free Review” a visitor understands and agrees that sending information to the firm will not create an attorney/client relationship and may not be kept confidential. Information sent through this link will be used to check for conflicts and schedule a consultation. An attorney-client relationship is formed only when both a potential client and a lawyer with the firm both sign a fee agreement. By submitting your contact information, you agree that we may contact you by telephone (including text) and email in accordance with our Terms and Privacy Policy.
This field is required.
Submit Free Review

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy(opens in a new tab) and Terms of Service(opens in a new tab) apply.

Attorney media

Why Choose Big Auto Accident Attorneys?

Big Auto Accident Attorneys approaches defective vehicle cases with a level of coordination that extends beyond traditional accident claims. We have access to a broad network of professionals, allowing us to investigate both the crash and the underlying defect. Our team remains actively involved throughout the process, ensuring your case is developed with precision, clarity, and a focused path toward the strongest possible outcome. Contact Big Auto Accident Attorneys today to explore whether a vehicle defect may have impacted your case and what steps to take next.

Other Cases We Handle

Hit & Run Accidents Aggressive Driving Accidents Distracted Driving Accidents Drunk Driving Accidents Head On Collisions Police Chase Accidents Rear End Collisions Reckless Driving Accidents Rental Car Accidents Road Rage Accidents Rollover Accident Side Impact Collisions Speeding Accidents T Bone Accidents Tailgating Accidents Teen Driving Accidents Uninsured Car Accidents Whiplash Accidents

Case Results

Our National Team Won Amount Awarded: $9.6M

Insurance Offered Original Insurance Offer: $1,500,000

Our National Team Won Amount Awarded: $8.3M

Insurance Offered Original Insurance Offer: $300,000

Our National Team Won Amount Awarded: $2.8M

Insurance Offered Original Insurance Offer: $250,000

Our National Team Won Amount Awarded: $635K

Insurance Offered Original Insurance Offer: $200,000

Our National Team Won Amount Awarded: $554K

Insurance Offered Original Insurance Offer: $160,000

Our National Team Won Amount Awarded: $275K

Insurance Offered Original Insurance Offer: $165,000

Our National Team Won Amount Awarded: $255K

Insurance Offered Original Insurance Offer: $100,000

Our National Team Won Amount Awarded: $233K

Insurance Offered Original Insurance Offer: $162,000

Our National Team Won Amount Awarded: $100K

Insurance Offered Original Insurance Offer: $0

Our National Team Won Amount Awarded: $100K

Insurance Offered Original Insurance Offer: $1,000

View More Results

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if a defect caused my accident?

A detailed investigation, including vehicle inspection and review of recall data, is typically required to determine this.

Can I file a claim if there was no recall?

Yes. A defect can exist even if a recall has not yet been issued.

Are these cases harder than regular car accident claims?

They are often more complex because they involve product liability and multiple parties.

What if the defect made my injuries worse but didn’t cause the crash?

You may still have a valid claim if the defect increased the severity of your injuries.

How long do defective vehicle cases take?

These cases can take longer due to the level of investigation required, but timelines vary depending on the specifics.

Get a Free Case Review

Get Started Get your free case review from a local attorney today.

Free. Confidential. No obligation. Tell us what happened and we’ll let you know how we can help.

This field is required.
This field is required.
This field is required.
This field is required.
This field is required.
By clicking “Submit Free Review” a visitor understands and agrees that sending information to the firm will not create an attorney/client relationship and may not be kept confidential. Information sent through this link will be used to check for conflicts and schedule a consultation. An attorney-client relationship is formed only when both a potential client and a lawyer with the firm both sign a fee agreement. By submitting your contact information, you agree that we may contact you by telephone (including text) and email in accordance with our Terms and Privacy Policy.
This field is required.
Submit Free Review

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy(opens in a new tab) and Terms of Service(opens in a new tab) apply.

Accessibility: If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact our Accessibility Manager at (844) BIG-AUTO.
Contact Us