Automobile Defect Liability in Georgia: Holding Manufacturers Accountable
It’s natural for drivers to assume that the vehicle they drive is safe and that manufacturers have taken the proper steps to ensure its reliability. However, this is simply not always the case. When defective vehicles hit Georgia roads, lives are put at risk.
If you or a loved one has been harmed because of a defective car, truck, or SUV, you may have the right to pursue legal action under Georgia automobile defect liability laws.
At Butler Prather LLP, we’ve built our reputation on representing individuals and families harmed by the negligence of powerful corporations. We know how to hold vehicle manufacturers accountable, and we stand ready to help you navigate your legal options if you’ve been seriously injured in a defective vehicle.
What Is Automobile Defect Liability?
Georgia automobile defect liability refers to the legal responsibility automakers and parts manufacturers have when a defect in a vehicle causes harm. These are typically pursued under product liability law in Georgia.
In a product liability case, a manufacturer can be liable if their product (in this case, a vehicle or auto part) is unreasonably dangerous due to a defect in its design, manufacturing process, or marketing.
At Butler Prather LLP, we’ve seen firsthand how these defects can destroy lives. In fact, we’ve won landmark cases against major automakers.
To succeed in a defective vehicle lawsuit, the injured party must prove:
- The vehicle or part had a design or manufacturing defect or inadequate warnings.
- The defect existed when it left the manufacturer’s control.
- The defect directly caused the injury or death.
- The vehicle was being used as intended at the time of the incident.
Common Types of Vehicle Defects
A car can be defective in many ways. These issues result in severe injuries or loss of life. Some of the most common types of auto defects we encounter in Columbus auto defect claims and across Georgia include:
- Defective airbags or airbag deployment systems
- Brake failure or flawed brake systems
- Unintended acceleration
- Tire blowouts caused by design or manufacturing flaws
- Fuel system leaks and fire hazards
- Seatbelt failures
- Roof collapse in rollover accidents
- Steering system malfunctions
Manufacturer Negligence and Legal Responsibility
Automobile manufacturers have a duty to test, inspect, and ensure the safety of their vehicles before placing them on the market. When they cut corners, overlook critical testing, or fail to act on known safety issues, they put consumers at risk.
This form of manufacturer negligence can take several forms, including:
- Ignoring internal safety reports
- Delaying necessary recalls
- Failing to implement quality control in production
- Marketing unsafe vehicles or systems without adequate warnings
When this happens, Georgia law allows injured parties to pursue claims against the manufacturer through product liability litigation. These lawsuits can result in significant compensation for victims, covering medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and, in tragic cases, wrongful death.
How Recalls Impact Your Claim
If a vehicle or part has been recalled by the manufacturer or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), it can serve as compelling evidence of a defect.
But it’s important to remember that not all defective vehicles are subject to recall. In fact, many recalls occur only after people have already been seriously injured or killed.
Steps to Take After an Accident
If you believe a vehicle defect caused your injury, taking the right steps can help protect your health and your legal rights:
- Seek immediate medical attention – Your health comes first.
- Preserve the vehicle – Do not repair, sell, or destroy the vehicle, as it serves as crucial evidence.
- Collect documentation – Medical records, photos of the scene, and witness information can all be useful.
- Speak to an attorney – Defective vehicle lawsuits require thorough investigation and expert testimony. An experienced legal team can manage this process on your behalf.
At Butler Prather LLP, we have the resources and network of experts to examine your vehicle, reconstruct the incident, and uncover evidence of manufacturer fault.
Experience Matters in Defective Vehicle Lawsuits
Auto defect cases are some of the most complex personal injury claims that often require:
- Access to engineering and automotive safety experts
- Deep understanding of Georgia’s product liability laws
- Experience litigating against major car manufacturers and their defense teams
With decades of experience in this field, our attorneys have litigated some of the most challenging product liability Georgia cases, taking on powerful corporations and delivering real results. We’ve secured several verdicts and settlements exceeding $100 million.
More specifically, our personal injury law firm has successfully handled claims involving Ford Super Duty roof crushes and rear gas tank Jeep explosions, among others. This is not new territory for us—we understand how to pursue justice in these high-stakes cases.
Compensation for Car Accident Victims
If your claim is successful, compensation may include:
- Medical bills, including long-term treatment or rehabilitation
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of companionship or support in wrongful death cases
- Punitive damages, in some cases of egregious negligence
Our mission is to help you secure the full and fair compensation you deserve. We treat your case like it’s the only one that matters—because to you, it is.
A Clear Voice Against Corporate Negligence
If you’ve been injured in a Georgia car accident and suspect a defect was involved, do not settle for a simple insurance payment. Vehicle manufacturers must be held accountable when they prioritize profits over people. You may be entitled to far more under Georgia’s product liability laws.
Let us investigate the root cause of your crash, gather the necessary evidence, and fight on your behalf. We are relentless advocates for injured individuals and families.
Talk to Our Georgia Automobile Defect Attorneys Today
At Butler Prather LLP, we understand how traumatic a vehicle-related injury can be, especially when it could have been prevented. If you’re dealing with the aftermath of a defective vehicle accident, we’re here to help. Our firm proudly represents individuals throughout Georgia, including Columbus, Savannah, and beyond.
We offer free consultations, and there is no fee unless we win your case. Call our Columbus auto product liability lawyers today at (706) 322-1990 to schedule your free case review. Allow our team to handle the legal battle while you focus on healing.