Anyone who’s done any amount of motorcycle maintenance knows how complicated these machines are and how much of a problem it can be when even one tiny component isn’t working properly. You have a right as a consumer to expect that all the parts and pieces that make up your motorcycle don’t have dangerous flaws and that your bike is designed and built to be safe to ride under normal conditions.
Unfortunately, not every motorcycle manufacturer meets this basic expectation with every product they put out, and that sometimes leads to riders getting hurt. If you have questions about whether you can sue over motorcycle defects and recalls in Bethlehem, our seasoned motorcycle accident attorneys have the answers and information you need. Reach out to our team at Ostroff Godshall Injury and Accident Lawyers today for a free, no-obligation consultation.
What Is the Motorcycle Recall Process?
There are two ways a motorcycle manufacturer can begin the recall process for a component or product with a dangerous defect. Most of the time, companies issue recall notices voluntarily once they learn about a specific defect. In some situations, though, the problem is so extreme that the U.S. government must step in and force a company to issue an involuntary recall notice.
Either way, companies that issue recalls are required by law to:
- Notify everyone who bought the product about the recall
- Tell them exactly what the defect in that product is
- Provide instructions for how those owners can get the defect fixed at no additional charge
During a private initial meeting, a qualified attorney at our firm can explain how different parts of the recall process work and how they might affect liability for a motorcycle injury in Bethlehem.
Proving You Have Grounds to File Suit Over a Motorcycle Defect
Once you’ve been notified of a product recall by a company that’s met all the requirements mentioned above, you typically don’t have a right to file suit over any injury you suffer from that defect. However, suppose you get hurt by a motorcycle defect in Bethlehem before you’re properly notified about a recall. In that case, you may have grounds to hold the manufacturer “strictly liable” for injuries and losses caused directly by that defect.
Under “product liability” law, it’s possible to file this type of claim over a:
- Defect in a product’s overall design
- Flaw in a product’s manufacturing or assembly
- Failure by the manufacturer to provide sufficient instructions and warnings for the safe use of the product. This is also known as a “marketing” defect
You’ll also need to prove that the product was defective when it left its manufacturer’s direct control, and that it wasn’t altered or tampered with after that point.
Talk to a Bethlehem Attorney About Motorcycle Defect and Recall Litigation
Filing a lawsuit over a defective motorcycle injury works differently from suing over injuries caused by traffic accidents while riding a motorcycle. You’ll be taking legal action against a big manufacturing company rather than an individual driver or car owner, and these companies usually dedicate millions of dollars specifically towards fighting claims just like yours.
Fortunately, you have help available with your case over a motorcycle defect or recall in Bethlehem from skilled and experienced legal professionals. Call Ostroff Godshall Injury and Accident Lawyers today to get started on your legal claim. Consultations are always free and absolutely no-obligation.
