Understanding Motorcycle Defects and Recalls in Grand Prairie
If a motorcycle part is improperly manufactured, that could cause the bike or its parts to be recalled due to defects. When a part has been improperly manufactured, it can cause a severe accident. Understanding motorcycle defects and recalls in Grand Prairie is important following an accident. Speak to a diligent motorcycle accident attorney to discuss the steps to take if you were injured in a crash due to a defect or recall.
The Difference Between a Motorcycle Defect And a Recall
A defect on a motorcycle or one of its parts can cause serious accidents. However, a defect on the motorcycle doesn’t necessarily mean that the particular model for the recall on it, it may just be a defect on one bike. And a defect on one bike does not necessarily mean that they need to recall all of those models that are out on the street. For example, if a bike has tread issues on a tire, it does not mean that all models of that type have a defect on the tread, a few hundred of those models saw defects on treads, then the manufacturer may choose to do a recall on that model.
A recall occurs when the manufacturer issues a notice recalling certain makes and models that were produced.
Examples Of Motorcycle Recalls
There are many reasons why a motorcycle or its parts may be recalled. Some of the common defects include:
- The frame
- Engine
- Fuel tank
- Brakes
- Wheels and tires
- Handlebars
- Overall design
There are lots of recalls on motorcycles over the years. Some of those included break recalls, fuel tank welds, improper fuel setting, possible loose spokes, rear suspension defect, electrical short, faulty fuel tank cap/seals, melted brake lines, and tire tread separation. An experienced car accident attorney could help determine whether a motorcycle or its parts are defected or recalled.
How is Liability Determined?
What you described there is a potential product liability case. If anybody thinks they may have a case, they should reach out to an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer.
In an injured related crash, law enforcement frequently writes up a crash report stating which vehicle unit they think was liable. Often, the lawyer will get this information right. It is not necessarily that the law enforcement officer doesn’t have the final word on determining liability. Liability in motorcycle wrecks is determined by negligence. The motorbike crash attorney will have to prove negligence on the other party. An experienced motorcycle wreck attorney is used to battling the insurance companies and can help the injured party get the compensation they need.
Is a Manufacturer Required To Notify Consumers Of Recalls?
Manufacturers typically notify registered owners by mail. They have a duty to inform the owner of the risk of the recall. The notice will inform the owner of the recall and explanation for the need for the recall and what action the owner should take if any. The explanation should specify what the exact issue is, how long it will take to repair the problem, and who is able to work on resolving the issues.
Information is just provided about whom to contact if the recall requires payment by the owner instead of a free resolution. Most of the time, it is a free resolution. Typically, recalls are for models within the last 10 years. And if in the last 10 years the repair is usually no cost to the owner.
Imminent Danger
Imminent danger occurs in situations where a rider is in immediate serious risk of death or serious physical harm. If the recall is of a nature that affects the ability to safely drive the motorcycle, then the rider is going to certainly be in immediate danger.
What If a Person Is Unaware Of Existing Defects Or Recalls?
If a person is in an accident and is unaware of existing defects or recalls, they should seek help from a knowledgeable attorney. A motorcycle accident lawyer would determine who is responsible for the defective product. The product liability holds the manufacturer liable for placing a defective product in the consumer’s hands.
However, there could be many responsible parties for the defect in the distribution chain. Potentially liable parties could be the manufacturer, the manufacturer of components and parts, a party that assembles the product, the wholesaler, or even the retail store that sold the product to the consumer.
Discuss Your Case With a Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Understanding motorcycle defects and recalls in Grand Prairie is extremely important, especially if you were injured in an accident. A knowledgeable motorcycle accident attorney could examine the evidence and help determine whether a defect was the cause of your accident. Reach out today to learn how a motorcycle accident attorney could help your case.