A motor vehicle must be properly maintained to operate safely and prevent accidents related to part breakdowns. Cars and trucks must always be in a suitable state of repair. If the person, auto shop or professional responsible for repairing a vehicle is negligent, or falls short of the standard of care, this can cause a serious automobile accident in Las Vegas.
What Are Negligent Repairs and How Can They Cause Accidents?
Negligent repairs refer to failures by auto mechanics, repair shops or individuals during vehicle work that result in an increased likelihood of related accidents. Within the context of a car accident claim, “negligence” is a breach of duty of care that means someone failed to fulfill the responsibility to prevent harm to others.
Examples of negligent repairs include:
- Failing to notice problems, damage, or part wear and tear
- Failing to recommend safety-critical repairs
- Using incorrect or low-quality aftermarket parts
- Using parts that have been recalled by the manufacturer
- Misdiagnosing the vehicle’s problem
- Failing to detect signs of brake or tire failure
- Overinflating or underinflating tires
- Forgetting to fill or top off fluids
- Damaging parts while making repairs
- Improperly installing a vehicle part
- Leaving foreign tools or materials in the engine
Subpar, incompetent or improper vehicle repairs can cause car accidents by compromising the integrity of critical vehicle components. Failing to properly maintain vehicle parts or unknowingly causing damage during repairs can lead to accidents caused by tire blowouts, brake failures, fires, vehicle rollovers, electrical malfunctions and engine failure.
Who Can Be Held Responsible for a Car Accident Caused by Negligent Repairs?
If a car accident investigation finds evidence of negligent repairs, various parties could be held liable or legally responsible for crash-related damages. An injured accident victim may be able to file an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit against one or more parties for causing their injuries, medical bills or property damage.
A Repair Shop or Mechanic
The mechanic or auto repair shop that worked on the car most recently prior to the accident may bear fault for a repair-related crash. When a licensed professional agrees to inspect or repair a vehicle, he or she takes on a legal duty of care. After this point, a substandard level of service constitutes a breach of duty – exposing the mechanic to liability in the event of a related auto accident.
The Vehicle Owner
You may have the right to bring a claim against a trucking company, rental car company, rideshare provider, delivery service, bus company, government agency or private vehicle owner for negligent vehicle maintenance and repairs.
If you rent or borrow a car during a visit to Las Vegas, you have the right to a reasonable expectation of vehicle safety. The person or corporation that owns the vehicle is responsible for ensuring proper maintenance and high-quality professional repairs, as needed.
How Can Hiring a Car Accident Lawyer Help You?
If you get injured in a car accident that was caused by equipment failure or negligent repairs, it is important to contact a personal injury lawyer to gain a better understanding of your legal rights and financial recovery options.
You may have grounds to bring a claim against one or multiple parties for negligent repairs. An attorney can identify all liable parties in your case, preserve and collect evidence proving negligence, and negotiate a fair settlement from an insurance provider on your behalf.