Defects and recalls involving motorcycles and parts are a critical safety issue. That includes faulty brakes, structural defects, and fuel leaks. Manufacturers or federal government agencies may identify these issues, and manufacturers are legally required to fix them at no cost.

That is true even if the warranties have expired. You may be eligible for compensation if a faulty vehicle or part caused you harm. An attorney at Fleming Law Accident & Injury Attorneys can help you understand how motorcycle defects and recalls in Houston can affect a legal claim for damages.

What Are the Most Common Motorcycle Defects?

Some examples of common motorcycle defects include:

  • Dragging brakes, defective master cylinders, failing lines, and other braking system issues that directly jeopardize stopping ability
  • Issues with engine and drivetrain parts, such as software glitches that lead to sudden power loss and clogged ports that lead to dangerous crankcase pressure and buildups
  • Leaks from cracked tanks or blocked breather ports, which spray fuel and increase the risk of fires and explosions
  • Problems with clutch assemblies, faulty throttles, or structural frames, preventing the biker from safely maneuvering
  • Tire blowouts caused by tread separations or design failures
  • Safety gear issues, including defective helmets or other gear meant to protect bikers during crashes

Our Houston attorneys are highly experienced in handling cases involving defective and recalled motorcycle equipment. We can review your case, answer your questions, and explain your options.

Federal Recalls by Manufacturers and the NHTSA

Federal statutes require that all motorcycle manufacturers fix safety issues that lead to recalls and complete the repairs without charging the vehicle owners. The National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966 requires that the federal government, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), monitor and ensure that vehicle makers comply with the laws by offering consumers a safe and free remedy for hazardous defects.

The agency publishes a list of motor vehicle safety recalls, searchable by make and model of the motorcycle or equipment the agency or the producer recalled, with a description of the issue. When a manufacturer or the NHTSA determines the need for a safety recall, they initiate action to alert the public. They base the conclusion on whether a motorcycle or its parts creates an unreasonable safety risk or fails to meet federal safety standards. If you sustained injuries because of faulty or recalled motorcycle equipment, our Houston team can defend your rights.

Determining Liability for a Motorcycle Defect

Determining liability for a Houston motorcycle collision involving recalled or defective equipment requires an exhaustive investigation and review of evidence. The outcome of the analysis depends on your specific circumstances and components that failed, and there can be multiple parties at fault.

The manufacturer may be liable if the cause involves the design, or the seller can be responsible for the resulting damages if they sold inherently hazardous or flawed products. A mechanic repair shop can be at fault if the crash resulted from poorly installed equipment or from using a known defective part in the repairs.

Deadline for Filing

It is vital that you preserve evidence, such as the faulty or recalled motorcycle part, exactly as it is after the accident. Be careful not to alter or dispose of any evidence that will support your case and secure an award for damages.

The statute of limitations requires that you prepare and file the claim within two years of the date of the traffic incident, and missing the deadline would result in the loss of eligibility for a settlement. Our lawyers can handle the legal work, communication, and negotiations and guide you through each stage of the process.

Call a Houston Attorney To Discuss Motorcycle Equipment Failures and Recalls

Manufacturers must produce and sell motorcycles and parts that meet the federal safety standards. When they become aware of problems, they must promptly alert you to the recall and correct the issue, free of charge.

You have the right to pursue payment if defective products caused you harm. Contact our skilled lawyers at Fleming Law Accident & Injury Attorneys to learn more about motorcycle defects and recalls in Houston.