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Manufacturers of defective parts

Not all truck accidents are caused by driver error or company negligence. Sometimes, defective parts manufactured or designed improperly are the root cause, making the manufacturer a liable party.

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  • Truck Accident Law Team
  • 2 min read
Article 4 of 6 in Liability in Truck Accidents/

Manufacturers of Defective Parts Liability in Truck Accidents

Types of Defective Parts

  1. Braking Systems

    • Defective air brakes can cause catastrophic failures.
    • Brake recalls are among the most common in the trucking industry.

  2. Tires

    • Manufacturing defects may lead to tread separation or blowouts.
    • Faulty tires are especially dangerous at highway speeds.

  3. Steering and Suspension Components

    • Defective parts reduce maneuverability and stability.
    • Can lead to rollovers or jackknife accidents.

  4. Fuel and Engine Systems

    • Faulty designs may cause fires, leaks, or loss of power.

  5. Safety Equipment

    • Malfunctioning underride guards, lighting, or warning systems can worsen crash outcomes.

  1. Product Liability (Strict Liability)

    • Manufacturers are automatically liable if a product defect makes the vehicle unreasonably dangerous.

  2. Negligence

    • Failure to exercise reasonable care in design, manufacturing, or testing.

  3. Breach of Warranty

    • If the product failed to perform as guaranteed under express or implied warranties.

Evidence in Litigation

  • Accident reconstruction linking defect to the crash.
  • Expert testimony from mechanical engineers.
  • Recall notices, defect investigation reports, or prior complaints.
  • Physical inspection of failed components.

Role of Recalls

  • Manufacturers often issue recalls after identifying safety defects.
  • If an accident occurs before or despite a recall, this strengthens liability claims.

Shared Liability

  • A defective part may combine with poor maintenance or driver negligence to cause an accident.
  • Courts may apportion liability among the manufacturer, trucking company, and driver.

Summary: When defective truck parts contribute to accidents, manufacturers can be held legally responsible under product liability law. These cases often rely heavily on expert analysis and recall evidence, ensuring that unsafe products do not escape accountability.

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Truck Accident Law Team

Written by : Truck Accident Law Team

Attorneys, investigators, and legal writers focused on U.S. trucking safety, litigation strategy, and victim advocacy.

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