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Proving fault in a motorcycle crash can be difficult, especially when a defective part is the cause. Riders trust their bikes are built safely, but design flaws, faulty materials, or poor manufacturing can lead to serious accidents.
For instance, in 2023, Harley-Davidson recalled over 65,000 Softail motorcycles due to a potentially faulty fastener. The defect could cause the fastener securing the shock absorber to break, leading to rear tire damage and loss of tire pressure.
If a defective part caused your crash, it’s possible to hold the manufacturer accountable under product liability laws. Gathering proper evidence of the defect and working with knowledgeable Syracuse motorcycle accident lawyers can strengthen your case.
Understanding Motorcycle Product Defects
Motorcycles rely on properly functioning parts for safe operation. When any component fails unexpectedly, it can lead to a crash. Defects in motorcycle parts typically fall into three categories: design defects, manufacturing defects, and marketing defects.
| Category | Explanation | Example |
| Design Defects | A flaw in the design makes the part unsafe even when used as intended. | A fuel tank placed too close to the engine may increase the fire risk during an accident. |
| Manufacturing Defects | Errors in production cause parts to be defective or unreliable. | A brake pad made with substandard materials could wear out too quickly, leading to brake failure. |
| Marketing Defects (Failure to Warn) | Lack of proper warnings or instructions about known risks makes the part more dangerous. | A tire with a history of blowouts at high speeds but no warning label could result in preventable accidents. |
Common Defective Motorcycle Parts That Can Cause Crashes
Certain motorcycle parts are more prone to defects, increasing the risk of accidents. Common defective motorcycle parts include:
- Tires: Poor manufacturing or excessive wear can reduce traction, making it harder to maintain control.
- Brakes: Faulty brake pads, leaking fluid, or a failing master cylinder can lead to braking issues or complete failure.
- Handlebars and Steering Components: Malfunctions or detachment can cause sudden loss of control.
- Fuel Tanks: Leaks or improper placement may increase the risk of fire or explosion in an accident.
Proving that a defect caused your crash requires clear and well-documented evidence.
Identifying Defective Motorcycle Parts After Your Crash
Building a case against a manufacturer or retailer starts with identifying the defective part and linking it to the accident. Take these key steps with the help of a skilled product liability attorney:
Preserve the Motorcycle for Inspection
Do not repair or dispose of your motorcycle after a crash. Keeping the damaged bike intact allows experts to examine the defective part and determine whether it contributed to the accident.
If the motorcycle is towed, store it somewhere safe, like a secured garage or an impound lot with controlled access.
Take Detailed Photos of the Damaged Parts
Photos provide crucial evidence of what went wrong. Capture close-up images of the broken or failed part from different angles. Take wider shots showing the overall damage to the bike.
If there are skid marks, debris, or leaking fluids at the crash site, document those also.
Get an Expert Inspection
A certified mechanic or engineer can analyze the defective part, check for mechanical failures, and explain how it led to the crash. Their report can provide technical details that connect the defect to the accident, making it harder for manufacturers or insurers to deny responsibility.
Investigate Product Recalls and Safety Reports
Manufacturers and regulatory agencies monitor defective products. Check whether the motorcycle part has been recalled for safety concerns.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall database and consumer safety websites list known defects. A recall can prove that the manufacturer was aware of the issue.
How a Lawyer Can Prove Your Case
Manufacturers often deny responsibility or claim that rider error caused the crash. A lawyer who specializes in motorcycle accidents can help by:
- Investigating the Defect: Attorneys work with engineers and accident reconstruction specialists to analyze the failed part, determine how it malfunctioned, and connect it to the crash.
- Applying New York’s Strict Liability Standards: New York typically follows strict liability in cases of defective products. This means you don’t have to prove the manufacturer was negligent, only that the defective part caused your crash.
- Filing a Product Liability Lawsuit Before the Deadline: In New York, the statute of limitations for filing a product liability claim is three years from the accident date. Delays can hurt your case, so contacting a lawyer early ensures critical evidence, such as the defective motorcycle part, is preserved.
Take Action After a Defective Motorcycle Part Causes a Crash
Holding a manufacturer accountable for a defective motorcycle part takes clear proof and legal experience. At Catalano Law, our Syracuse motorcycle accident lawyers understand the detailed evidence required for product liability cases.
We work with industry experts, gather the right evidence, and fight back against manufacturers who try to deny responsibility.
Contact Catalano Law today for a free consultation.
