Albuquerque Auto Defect Attorneys
Fighting to Recover Compensation for Victims Injured by Auto Defects in Albuquerque, NM
Vehicles are inherently complex machines, but we depend on their myriad components and features to work reliably and keep us safe when a collision occurs. When a crash is caused by a component failure or accident injuries are worsened due to a flawed safety element, you may be entitled to compensation. Vehicle manufacturers and other participants in a vehicle’s chain of distribution are strictly liable for any injuries defective components cause, meaning you have the right to file a lawsuit and seek damages.
At Potts Law Firm, we have a proven track record of securing favorable outcomes in these cases. Our Albuquerque auto defect lawyers have leveraged their over 250 years of combined experience to recover over $1 billion for our clients. Every dollar counts in the aftermath of a car accident, and we are committed to getting you the best possible result. We also handle these cases on a contingency basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we deliver a favorable outcome.
If you think your accident may have been caused or worsened by a defective vehicle component, call (505) 305-1283 or contact us online to schedule a free initial consultation. We offer same-day appointments and provide services in English and Spanish.
How Do Auto Defects Happen in New Mexico?
Auto defects generally come in one of two categories: design defects and manufacturing defects. A design defect occurs when the inherent design of a vehicle or a specific component is flawed, meaning every vehicle or component with that design will represent a safety risk. Design defects may be the result of engineering mistakes, but they can also be the result of cost engineering and cutting corners.
Manufacturing defects happen when the vehicles are assembled. The design itself will be sound, but some problem during manufacturing, whether it is an honest mistake or shoddy workmanship, results in a vehicle or specific component that does not function as intended. Only the specific vehicles or components affected by the problem will be flawed and unsafe. Manufacturing defects can become more likely when vehicle production is rushed or when unreasonable quotas are set.
Vehicle manufacturers have a responsibility to recall defective automobiles and components when they learn about safety issues. Millions of vehicles and components are recalled each year. For your own safety, you should never drive a vehicle that is part of an active recall. Your manufacturer must repair or replace your vehicle (or the defective component) at no cost to you.
Our Albuquerque auto defect attorneys can assist you with claims involving many types of design and manufacturing flaws, including:
- Airbag and Seatbelt Failures
- Broken Seatbacks
- Door Latch and Hood Latch Failures
- Ignition Defects and Loss of Power
- Roof Collapse and Crashworthiness Issues
- Steering and Handling Defects
- Tire Defects
- Vehicle Fires and Fuel System Defects
Who Is Liable for Auto Defect Injuries in New Mexico?
In some cases, design or manufacturing defects are clearly the results of a manufacturer or designer’s negligence. Fortunately, if you were injured by an auto defect, you do not have to prove negligence to obtain compensation.
In New Mexico, participants in a vehicle’s chain of distribution are strictly liable for any injuries caused by defects. This means that you are entitled to damages if you can show that a defect existed and that the defect caused you harm. Proving that an accident was caused or worsened by a defect can be challenging if your vehicle was seriously damaged or destroyed, but Potts Law Firm can investigate and help you build a sound case.
The type of defect and the circumstances surrounding it will determine liability. More than one party involved in the distribution chain may be liable.
Depending on what happened, you may be able to pursue an auto defect claim against:
- The manufacturer of the defective vehicle or vehicle component
- The distributor of the defective vehicle or vehicle component
- The mechanic or auto shop that created a defect through negligent work on your vehicle
- The car dealer or dealership who sold you a defective vehicle or vehicle component
Injured in a car accident involving an auto defect and not sure what to do next? Contact us online or call (505) 305-1283 to explore your legal options with our team.
It's All About Your Recovery
Hear From Our Past Client's
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I had a wonderful experience with this law firm.
“They were able to complete it in a timely manner and were great at keeping me up to date with communication throughout the entire process. I highly recommend using this law firm if the need arises.”
- Stephen P. -
I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend him or any of the team at Potts.
“Michael Bins has been extremely helpful in helping us to navigate a situation with an insurance claim on a commercial property. He’s gone above and beyond in moving our case toward a positive resolution that we’re satisfied with.”
- Theo C. -
The Potts Law Firm is a powerhouse of brilliant attorneys.
“They know the law from every angle, dig deep, and will not accept anything less than what was asked in the original suit. The Potts team never backed down until the case was settled in full.”
- Molly H. -
I highly recommend Adam and Potts Law Firm
“From the first meeting, Adam made me feel like he had my best interest at heart and took care of everything. I can't say enough good things about how helpful, professional, and caring Adam was to me.”
- Mary H. -
I would recommend Potts Law Firm for any and all legal matters that come my way in the future!
“The Potts Law Firm answered all of my numerous questions in layman’s terms which is what I needed. I was able to lie back & heal from my injuries knowing full well that my obligations were being handled appropriately.”
- W. Gary
Can I File an Auto Defect Lawsuit after a Single-Car Accident in New Mexico?
Can I File an Auto Defect Lawsuit after a Single-Car Accident in New Mexico?
A single-car accident might occur if your vehicle collides with something other than another vehicle, like a guardrail or tree. In these scenarios, you cannot usually sue to recover damages. However, if a single-car accident is caused by an auto defect, you can potentially pursue a claim. We are happy to evaluate your options if you were involved in a single-car accident.
it's all about your best possible result
Explore our past successes-
Seat Back Failure Seven-Figure Settlement
Potts Law Firm secured a confidential seven-figure settlement against an automobile manufacturer when the client’s vehicle was struck by another vehicle causing the driver’s seat to collapse backward allowing the client to be thrown into the back seat where she received spinal cord injuries, rendering her a quadriplegic.
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Defective Airbag Seven-Figure Settlement
Potts Law Firm secured a confidential seven-figure settlement against an automobile manufacturer for the clients when their nine-year-old daughter was killed by the passenger side airbag in this low-energy collision.
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Small Statured Seat Belt Defect Confidential Settlement
Potts Law Firm secured a judgment and subsequent confidential settlement against an automobile manufacturer for a defective occupant restraint system provided for the front seat driver in a 1990 vehicle. This was a judge-tried case. After presenting evidence as to liability, the judge entered a plaintiff’s verdict.
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Auto Explosion Seven-Figure Settlement
Potts Law Firm secured a confidential seven-figure settlement against an automobile manufacturer for a defective fuel tank system. The client received 3rd and 2nd-degree burns over 60% of her body when the 2004 vehicle she was driving was hit in the rear causing the vehicle to become as witnesses describe a “fireball.”
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Defective Seat Belt Seven-Figure Settlement
Potts Law Firm secured a confidential seven-figure settlement against an automobile manufacturer for the clients when the restraint system in the subject vehicle failed to properly restrain their son in a rollover.
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Defective Seat Belt Buckle Seven-Figure Settlement
Potts Law Firm secured a confidential seven-figure settlement against automobile manufacturers when the client’s seat belt was unlatched during a collision allowing him to move forward which caused his head to impact the interior of the vehicle. The client was immediately rendered a quadriplegic.