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Motor vehicle defect law in Missouri focuses on protecting consumers and drivers who have been harmed due to vehicles with faulty parts or unsafe manufacturing. These defects can range from design and manufacturing errors to failures in essential systems like brakes, steering, airbags, or electrical components. The law holds manufacturers, distributors, and sometimes dealers responsible if their vehicles or parts injured someone or caused property damage due to defects. Missouri recognizes a consumer’s right to seek compensation for injuries, losses, or damages arising from such defects, and specific state and federal laws govern these claims.
Motor vehicle defect cases can be complicated and often require legal knowledge to succeed. You may need a lawyer in the following situations:
Several Missouri and federal laws address motor vehicle defects:
Missouri law generally allows five years to file most product liability and breach of warranty claims, but it is best to consult with an attorney about specific deadlines that may apply.
A motor vehicle defect is any flaw in the design, manufacture, or assembly of a vehicle that makes it unsafe to operate or lessens its value. Examples include faulty airbags, brakes that fail, steering problems, or electrical hazards.
Preserve the vehicle and its parts, document everything, seek medical attention if needed, and contact a lawyer promptly to protect your rights and evidence.
You may be able to sue the manufacturer, distributor, retailer, or parts supplier, depending on where the defect originated and the chain of commerce.
Missouri’s Lemon Law generally applies to new vehicles, but certain used cars may have some protections if they are still within original warranties or if fraud is involved.
The law requires that the dealer or manufacturer be given a reasonable number of attempts, typically four, or the vehicle be out of service for 30 or more cumulative business days.
Compensation may cover repair costs, replacement of the vehicle, diminished value, medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, or wrongful death damages, depending on the specifics of the case.
Most product liability and breach of warranty actions must be filed within five years from the date you discovered, or should have discovered, the defect. Some cases have shorter deadlines, so do not wait to consult a lawyer.
A recall is an official notice by the manufacturer or NHTSA about a safety issue. If you are injured before or after a recall, you may still pursue a claim. A recall may also help prove your case.
Most motor vehicle defect claims require testimony from automotive experts to prove the existence and impact of a defect. An attorney can help secure qualified experts.
Many lawyers handle these cases on a contingency basis, meaning you pay nothing unless your claim is successful. Initial consultations are often free.
If you suspect a motor vehicle defect has caused you harm, prioritize your safety and seek medical help if necessary. Document the defect, all related repairs or contact with dealers and manufacturers, and keep all receipts and records. Do not have the vehicle repaired or altered before speaking with a lawyer, as this could affect your claim. Consider reaching out to a Missouri attorney with experience in motor vehicle defect law for a case review. Early legal advice can help preserve your evidence, ensure you meet filing deadlines, and increase your chances of a favorable outcome.
If you are not ready to contact a lawyer yet, start by researching your vehicle’s recall status, gathering all paperwork, and familiarizing yourself with Missouri’s Lemon Law and product liability statutes. Use the resources listed above for further guidance while you prepare your next steps.
