Most of us have seen videos showing crash dummies strapped into vehicles as it travels in the direction of another car, wall or another non-moving object. One reason why regulators perform such testing is to determine how crashworthy a vehicle is. These tests often prove that automakers don’t create all cars equally.
What does crashworthiness mean?
The concept of crashworthiness refers to how well a vehicle’s frame distributes the impact of the crash. Cars that are successful in absorbing the collision’s force across a larger portion of its structure for a longer amount of time are more apt to result in occupants suffering less bodily harm than other automobiles.
Safety research shows that the more crashworthy a vehicle is, the less of a chance there is of a vehicle fire, crumple zone injuries, airbag or seatbelt malfunctions and occupant ejections.
Can consumers sue auto manufacturers for a car’s lack of crashworthiness?
A common question that consumers who’ve suffered injuries ask following an accident is whether they can hold auto manufacturers liable for their vehicle’s lack of crashworthiness. Automakers do have an obligation to ensure that their automobiles are reasonably safe before releasing them on the market.
You’ll need to prove that the injuries you suffered are attributable to a design defect in the vehicle and that its lack of crashworthiness increased your risk of getting hurt or the severity of your injuries if you plan to sue an auto manufacturer. A personal injury attorney here in Wilson can help you understand how North Carolina law may allow you to hold an auto manufacturer liable for what happened to you.
