Driver errors are not the only cause of car crashes in Oklahoma. Sometimes, a hidden defect in a vehicle—such as faulty brakes or a failed airbag—can cause serious accidents and raise complex questions about who is liable. This situation may feel especially frustrating if it involves a car you’ve just purchased, as hidden defects can still be present.
Even new vehicles can have hidden issues. Problems with brakes, tires or electronics may go unnoticed until they lead to a crash.
Faulty parts and what to do next
When parts suddenly stop working during your daily commute, the risk of a crash increases. Here are examples that show what might go wrong:
- Brake failure: Causes longer stopping distances or complete failure
- Steering lockups: Triggers loss of control when turning
- Blown tires: Leads to sudden swerving or rollover risk
- Nonworking airbags: Increases injury risk on impact
- Broken headlights or brake lights: Limits visibility to you and others
Even if your car is brand new, it can still reveal these problems early on. In some cases, defects are caused by manufacturing or delivery. If you find yourself in a crash, take these steps to preserve essential details:
- Keep the vehicle exactly as it was after the crash
- Keep all receipts and past service records
- Take pictures of every visible part of the damage
- Write down what you remember before and after the wreck
- Search the vehicle make and model for any safety recalls
These actions can help you identify which part malfunctioned, when it failed and whether you or a third party—such as a manufacturer or seller—bears responsibility. If the manufacturer sold the part in a defective state, they may face legal consequences. If a retailer knew about the defect and did not disclose it before putting the vehicle up for sale, they may also face liability for the damage.
Every case needs close review
There are many different factors that can cause crashes. Some involve road or weather conditions. Others with parts that fail during regular driving. You may not notice a broken component right away. But once you do, start documenting early by saving records, taking photos and checking recalls to pinpoint what went wrong.
After you have determined that faulty parts caused the crash, you may wonder about liability and your legal options. A lawyer can explain your situation, walk you through your insurance policy, discuss your available options and review whether a defective part played a role. They can also find someone to inspect your car and help with your next steps if you decide to take legal action.