Can I Sue if a Defective Motorcycle Part Caused My Accident?
Each year, hundreds of motorcycle accidents are caused by defective or faulty equipment. Faulty brakes, tires, or fuel lines can turn a pleasant ride into a nightmare. If a defective motorcycle part caused your accident, you may be able to sue the manufacturer, retailer, or mechanic who installed the part. In this blog, our Nashville product liability attorneys discuss your options if you have been injured due to a defective motorcycle part.
Types of Manufacturing Defects
It is estimated that 3% of motorcycle accidents are caused by defective parts. The most common types of defective parts include:
Brakes
Faulty brakes can make squealing, grinding, or thumping noises. A defective brake can make it difficult to stop, posing a significant danger to a rider that lacks the protection of an enclosed vehicle.
Tires
Balding tires or separating treads can be just as dangerous as faulty brakes. A lack of traction can cause a rider to lose control of the bike, resulting in serious injuries.
Shock Absorbers
A worn shock or strut can cause the steering wheel to vibrate, leading to a bumpy ride. If you find that your bike is becoming more difficult to handle, if your bike is swaying during turns, or if your ride is becoming bouncy, it is best to have your shock absorbers looked at by a qualified mechanic. A defective shock absorber places you at an increased risk of having an accident.
Chain
A motorcycle chain acts as a link between the rear wheel and the engine, propelling your vehicle forward. A defective chain can present with the bike jerking during acceleration and excessive noise when the bike is running. If the chain seems excessively stretched or skipping teeth due to looseness, it is time to replace it. A chain that breaks can cause the rear wheel to lock up, causing a crash.
Fuel Tank
A fuel tank in optimal operation delivers a consistent supply of gas to the engine, allowing your vehicle to run smoothly. Whether it be due to leaks, loose fittings, or fuel pump issues, a defective fuel tank can result in hard starts, causing your bike to break down.
Who is Responsible for a Defective Motorcycle Part?
If you have fallen victim to a crash caused by a manufacturing defect, you may be able to sue the part manufacturer or store that sold you the part. Under Tennessee law, an injured party does not need to show that the manufacturer knew about the defect. Rather, you must prove that the part was defective and that your injuries were a direct result of that defect (known as “strict liability”). Additionally, if a mechanic fails to identify the defect and installs the part anyway, you may take legal recourse against that individual by naming them as a party to the lawsuit.
Injured? Speak with Our Nashville Product Liability Attorneys Today
If a defective motorcycle part causes you to crash, it is crucial that you are informed of your legal options. Given the vulnerability of motorcycle riders, healing from a collision can involve multiple surgeries and several months of rehabilitation.
At Raybin & Weissman, our Nashville product liability lawyers are dedicated to helping you secure the financial resources you need to ensure a smooth physical recovery. If you are interested in learning what our legal team can do for you, contact us online or give us a call at 615-256-6666. We offer free, no-obligation consultations to new clients.