Portland Gas Pedal Defects Attorney
The gas pedal is one of the most essential parts of any type of motor vehicle. After all, without a gas pedal, you would be unable to move the vehicle across the ground and it would be basically useless. However, an accelerator can also cause serious problems if it malfunctions suddenly while someone is driving. In such a situation, a defective gas pedal can cause serious risks of collisions, injuries, and even death.
At the Johnston Law Firm, our skilled personal injury lawyers know how terrifying it can be if your gas pedal malfunctions and causes you to crash your car. We have seen firsthand the devastating types of injuries that can result from this type of crash and we are committed to helping victims recover for their losses and injuries whenever possible. If your vehicle malfunctioned and caused you injury, please call to discuss your situation with a member of our legal team today.
Gas Pedal Malfunctions
Many different makes and models of passenger vehicles over the years have caused accidents and injuries due to gas pedal defects and malfunctions. Some of these malfunctions can include:
- The gas pedal sticking;
- Unintentional acceleration,
- Gas pedals that can bend, crack, or break;
- Electrical malfunctions.
Any of these malfunctions can cause a driver to completely lose control and crash. Imagine driving at highway speeds in traffic and suddenly your vehicle begins to accelerate faster beyond your control. In such a situation, the best course of action to try to keep yourself safe is to remain calm (which is easier said than done), keep your foot on the brake, and try to get the car into neutral so you can bring it to a stop. Unfortunately, many drivers either do not know how to react or are unable to take these steps before they crash.
Holding The Manufacturer Liable
Car manufacturers are giant operations that reach many consumers, often around the world. These companies have the legal duty to ensure that all of their vehicles – and their various parts – are free from defects and are in safe condition for consumers to drive. If a company sells a defective car part that causes an accident, it should be held responsible under the legal principle of products liability.
Even more serious is when a company knew of a possible dangerous defect and continued to sell the vehicles knowing they could cause injury. If a company learns of a possible defect, it should issue a timely recall for all affected vehicles. If it fails to do so, it may increase the liability the company faces for any injuries and collisions that occurred.
In order to hold the manufacturer liable, you must prove one of the following:
- The gas pedal was defectively designed and every pedal from the design is likely faulty;
- The gas pedal was improperly assembled, so likely only that batch of pedals or vehicles is faulty;
- The company knew of the risks of a particular gas pedal and failed to warn drivers of those risks.
In many cases, determining exactly how the company was negligent can be complex and technical, especially if there has not yet been a recall issued regarding your make and model of vehicle. On the other hand, if there are already cases involving the gas pedal on your particular type of car, the procedures for seeking compensation will be different. In either situation, you want an attorney on your side who understands the legal issues in your case.
Seeking Recovery for Your Losses
If your defective gas pedal caused your injuries, we can help you file a claim to seek compensation for the following losses and more:
- Medical expenses;
- Lost wages;
- Pain and suffering;
- Wrongful death.
Contact a Portland Gas Pedal Defects Lawyer
If you have been injured in a car crash because your gas pedal was defective, you are likely facing a long road to recovery as well as emotional distress from your traumatic experience. If you lost a loved because of a malfunctioning gas pedal, you are likely overcome with grief, anger, and the desire for justice. In either situation, the dedicated personal injury lawyers at the Johnston Law Firm are here to help you. We understand how devastating accidents can be when caused by defective cars and we are determined to hold manufacturers accountable. We have the resources needed to take on large corporations in court to protect your rights. Please call our office today at (503) 546-3167 to discuss your case for free.