Vehicle malfunctions can turn an ordinary drive into a catastrophic event. Brake failures, tire blowouts, steering malfunctions, and other mechanical defects can suddenly strip drivers of control, leaving them unable to prevent a collision.
Accidents due to mechanical failures often result in severe injuries, disabilities, psychological trauma, and extensive property damage. South Carolina law recognizes that mechanical failures can result from negligence in design, manufacturing, or maintenance, and victims have legal options to pursue compensation.
Determining liability requires careful investigation into whether the mechanical failure stemmed from a defective part, inadequate maintenance, or improper repairs. If you have been injured in a car accident caused by a mechanical failure, the car accident attorneys at Jebaily Law Firm can help you identify the responsible parties and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Contact us now for a free consultation with an experienced South Carolina car accident lawyer.
Reasons Why You Should Choose Our SC Car Accident Law Firm
Mechanical failure and car accident cases are complex and require a team that truly understands the stakes. The attorneys at Jebaily Law Firm grew up in South Carolina, witnessing firsthand how ordinary people could be hurt by corporate negligence.
Our commitment to fairness and justice drives every case we take on. Over decades, we have partnered with automotive engineers and accident reconstruction experts to uncover hidden defects and hold manufacturers and other liable parties accountable.
Many of our past clients praise our team for treating them like family while fighting tirelessly for fair compensation. For example, one of our previous clients wrote:
“Highly recommend Jebaily Law Firm. Brian and his Team are truly professional, who really fight for your well-being, and what you truly deserve. Thank you so much!” – Steven Pearson
From Florence to Myrtle Beach and beyond, Jebaily Law Firm is deeply connected to the communities we serve, supporting clients not just legally but personally through challenging times.
Every client works directly with experienced lawyers who explain every step and answer every question. By handling cases on a contingency basis, Jebaily Law Firm ensures justice is accessible to anyone harmed by defective vehicles.
Common Types of Mechanical Failures That Cause Car Accidents
A significant percentage of car accidents are caused by mechanical failures. Multiple vehicle components can fail, causing serious accidents, each of which requires careful investigation to establish liability. For example:
- Brake system failures, from worn brake pads, defective brake lines, defective antilock brake systems, contaminated brake fluid, or faulty calipers, often lead to rear-end or intersection crashes.
- Tire defects, such as weak sidewalls or poor tread adhesion, can cause blowouts, loss of control, rollovers, or collisions.
- Steering malfunctions, including power steering failures or broken linkages, prevent drivers from controlling the vehicle’s direction.
- Engine failure and transmission issues can result in stalling, sudden acceleration, or loss of power.
- Electrical failures can affect lights, braking, steering, and acceleration.
- Suspension failures compromise stability and can cause a driver to lose control.
- Airbag defects may prevent deployment or cause an explosion, injuring occupants.
Motor vehicle failures often involve manufacturing defects, design flaws, improper repairs, or inadequate maintenance, requiring detailed investigation to hold liable parties accountable.
Who Is Liable for a Car Accident Caused by Mechanical Failure in South Carolina?
Determining liability in a car accident caused by a mechanical failure requires examining the defect’s origin and the accident’s circumstances. South Carolina law recognizes several potential defendants, depending on the specifics of the mechanical issues. Some examples of potentially liable parties include:
- Vehicle manufacturers are responsible for design and manufacturing defects, including flaws or errors that make components unsafe. They must design safe vehicles, conduct proper testing, and warn consumers of known risks.
- Parts manufacturers may be liable when defective components, such as brakes or tires, cause accidents.
- Vehicle owners have a duty to maintain their vehicles safely, and negligence, like ignoring routine maintenance or necessary repair, can create liability.
- Repair shops and mechanics may be responsible if improper repairs or inspections contribute to failures.
- Dealerships can face liability for selling vehicles with known defects.
Some cases involve multiple parties, and South Carolina law allows victims to seek compensation from all responsible entities.
How to File a Claim After a Mechanical Failure in a South Carolina Motor Vehicle Accident
Filing a claim after a mechanical failure accident requires prompt action and careful documentation. Seek medical attention immediately, even for minor injuries, and report the incident to law enforcement, noting any suspected mechanical failure.
Preserve vehicle evidence and obtain maintenance records. Contact an attorney quickly, as these cases involve complex legal and technical issues. Your attorney can arrange expert examinations, handle insurance communications, and notify all potentially liable parties. South Carolina law sets strict deadlines, making timely action essential to protect your rights and secure compensation.
Compensation and Damages for Victims of Mechanical Failure Accidents in South Carolina
Victims of mechanical failure accidents can pursue several types of compensation under South Carolina law. Medical expenses cover emergency treatment, hospitalization, surgery, medication, therapy, and ongoing care, including future costs if needed.
Lost wages compensate injured people for income missed while recovering, and lost earning capacity applies when injuries reduce their ability to work. Pain and suffering damages address physical and emotional distress. Property damage covers vehicle repairs or replacement.
In cases of egregious conduct, such as a manufacturer hiding a known defect, punitive damages may apply.
Legal Challenges and How Our South Carolina Motor Vehicle Accident Attorneys Can Help
With mechanical failure cases, proving causation is often the greatest hurdle. You must show that a mechanical failure caused your accident. Many mechanical defect claims require testimony from automotive engineers who can examine the vehicle, identify defects, and explain how they led to the accident.
Manufacturers and other defendants use sophisticated defense strategies. They have extensive resources and legal teams focused on minimizing liability. Accessing evidence is often difficult because manufacturers control key information about designs, testing, and known defects. Legal tools such as discovery requests, subpoenas, and court orders are usually necessary to obtain such critical information.
Mechanical failure claims involve complex engineering concepts, manufacturing processes, and industry standards. Multiple defendants increase complexity, making coordination crucial. Time is critical to preserve evidence and begin the investigation promptly.
Contact Our Motor Vehicle Defect Lawyers in South Carolina Today for Help
Mechanical failures can turn everyday drives into life-changing events. You need support from attorneys who understand both the law and appreciate the impact on your life.
At Jebaily Law Firm, our team has over 100 years of combined legal experience protecting South Carolina residents. We stand by our communities, ensuring that injured individuals are not left to navigate complex legal battles alone.
Every client works directly with experienced lawyers who explain every step. We handle cases on a contingency basis, so you pay nothing unless we win.
Contact us today for a free consultation.
