Best Motor Vehicle Defect Lawyers in Tennessee

About Motor Vehicle Defect Law in Tennessee, United States

Motor vehicle defect law in Tennessee covers the legal remedies available to individuals who are harmed by defective cars, trucks, motorcycles, or their components. Defects may include design flaws, manufacturing errors, or problems with vehicle parts such as brakes, airbags, engines, or tires. When these defects result in accidents or injuries, affected individuals may have grounds to pursue compensation from the manufacturer, dealer, or other responsible parties under product liability law. Tennessee law aims to protect consumers by ensuring that vehicles sold and operated within the state are safe and free from hidden defects.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

You may need a lawyer if you encounter issues related to a motor vehicle defect, including:

• Your car, truck, or motorcycle malfunctions due to a manufacturing or design defect, leading to an accident or injury
• You purchased a new vehicle that has repeated, unfixable problems (commonly known as a “lemon”)
• You are involved in a crash caused by another vehicle with a known defect
• You are having difficulty getting repairs or compensation from a manufacturer or dealer
• You received a recall notice and have questions about your rights and safety

Local Laws Overview

Tennessee law provides several legal paths for consumers affected by motor vehicle defects:

• Product Liability: Tennessee follows the Tennessee Product Liability Act, which allows individuals to sue manufacturers and sellers for defective products that cause injury or property damage. You must prove the vehicle had a defect, the defect existed when the vehicle left the manufacturer or seller, and the defect caused your harm.
• Lemon Law: The Tennessee Lemon Law applies to new vehicles purchased in the state. If a vehicle has a serious, recurring issue that cannot be fixed after a reasonable number of repair attempts within the first year or first 12,000 miles, consumers may be eligible for a replacement or refund.
• Statute of Limitations: Generally, you have one year from the date of injury to file a product liability lawsuit in Tennessee. There are exceptions, so it is important to consult with a lawyer promptly.
• Recalls: Manufacturers are required to issue recalls for unsafe vehicles and must repair the defect at no cost to the consumer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What counts as a motor vehicle defect?

A motor vehicle defect can be a design flaw, manufacturing error, or a problem with vehicle parts like brakes, steering, airbags, or tires that creates a safety risk.

What should I do if I suspect my vehicle has a defect?

Stop driving the vehicle if it is unsafe, document the issue, keep repair records, and contact the dealership or manufacturer. You may also report the issue to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Does the Tennessee Lemon Law apply to used vehicles?

No, Tennessee’s Lemon Law only applies to new vehicles purchased or leased within the state. Used vehicles are generally not covered unless they are still under the original warranty.

If my vehicle has been recalled, what are my rights?

You have the right to have the defect repaired free of charge by the manufacturer or authorized dealer. If the issue cannot be fixed, you may be entitled to a replacement or refund.

Who can be held liable for a motor vehicle defect?

Manufacturers, distributors, dealers, and sometimes component part suppliers can all be held liable if a defect causes harm.

How do I prove my injury was caused by a defect?

You must show evidence that the defect existed when the vehicle left the manufacturer, the defect caused your injuries, and you were using the vehicle as intended. This often requires expert testimony and technical analysis.

What compensation can I recover in a motor vehicle defect case?

You may recover the cost of repairs or replacement, medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages caused by the defect.

Is there a time limit for filing a claim?

Yes, in Tennessee the statute of limitations for product liability cases is usually one year from the date of injury or discovery of the defect. Filing late can bar your claim.

Can I join a class action lawsuit for motor vehicle defects?

In some cases, if many people have been harmed by the same defect, you may be able to join or start a class action lawsuit. An attorney can advise if this is appropriate for your situation.

Do I need an attorney to handle a motor vehicle defect claim?

While you are not legally required to have an attorney, motor vehicle defect cases can be complex. An attorney can safeguard your rights, maximize your compensation, and handle negotiations with manufacturers or insurers.

Additional Resources

The following organizations and government agencies can provide more information and assistance regarding motor vehicle defects in Tennessee:

• Tennessee Attorney General’s Office - Consumer Affairs Division
• National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) - vehicle safety recalls and complaints
• Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance - Consumer Protection
• Better Business Bureau - Auto Line dispute resolution program
• Local legal aid organizations

Next Steps

If you believe you have a claim involving a motor vehicle defect:

• Document all issues, repairs, and any communications with the manufacturer or dealer
• Preserve your repair and purchase records
• Report the defect to government agencies like the NHTSA if it is a safety issue
• Contact a Tennessee attorney with experience in motor vehicle defect and product liability law for an evaluation of your case
• Never sign a settlement or release without consulting a lawyer first