Many bikers are meticulous about their motorcycle’s upkeep due to how prone these vehicles are to potential harm. Motorcycles have a lot of exposed machinery when compared to cars or trucks, so they require more maintenance. This means that you may have to make more trips to a mechanic or the dealership in order to keep your bike in the best shape. Unfortunately, mechanics may miss or cause issues with the motorcycle. In addition, it is possible for any vehicle to go through recalls.

Regardless of the cause, motorcycle flaws can lead to dangerous accidents. If you or a loved one has been harmed due to motorcycle defects and recalls in Pinellas Park, one of our motorcycle accident lawyers at Herman & Wells can help guide you through your legal options.

What Are Motorcycle Defects and Recalls?

A motorcycle defect that could lead to a personal injury case in Pinellas County generally consists of any manufacturing or design flaws that may cause or contribute to an accident. These issues may be present when purchasing the bike. In this case, the manufacturer may be required to publicly issue a safety recall to those who have purchased the bike. A safety recall announcement should include the following details:

  • A description and explanation of the defect
  • How the defect may be dangerous
  • What you should do to fix the defect

Manufacturers are required to fix these recalls for free. If you are unsure about whether or not your motorcycle has or had an active recall at the time of the accident, The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) keeps an updated list of vehicular recalls that you can check here.

Recalls are not the only way for a motorcycle to be considered dangerous. When taking your bike for routine maintenance or repairs, there is a risk that a mechanic may cause damage that jeopardizes your safety. In case of these circumstances, it is important to document your repairs by keeping receipts from any mechanics or dealers that work on your motorcycle.

Common Motorcycle Defects and Recalls

Like any vehicle, motorcycles have a lot of moving parts. Some common motorcycle flaws and defects that could lead to accidents in Pinellas Park include:

  • Faulty brakes
  • Defective tires
  • Fuel system problems
  • Compromised frame
  • Defective engines
  • Steering or handlebar issues
  • Electrical system complications

Any of these issues can lead to accidents or affect the severity of injury during a wreck. These issues are commonly caused by faulty manufacturing, mishandling of the motorcycle during transport, or negligent work of a mechanic.

Laws Surrounding Defects and Recalls

No biker expects their motorcycle to cause them harm. When purchasing a product, it is expected that it will perform as designed when sold to the customer. Fortunately, Florida has product liability laws that may help protect consumers if they are the victim of defective or dangerous products. Florida Statutes § 768.1256 details what circumstances may justify a claim.

If you pursue an injury case, you will have to prove that the motorcycle or a part of the motorcycle was defective and caused or contributed to the Pinellas Park accident. The crash must also have caused real harm that can be compensated for. This includes monetary damages surrounding steep medical bills. Our team can help answer any specific questions about the situation surrounding your case.

Speak With Our Attorneys in Pinellas County About Your Motorcycle Defect or Recall

Dealing with financial and legal proceedings following a motorcycle accident can be stressful. Our team at Herman & Wells may help alleviate some of that stress. We can help you determine if filing a claim will get you the justice and compensation you deserve.

Book a free case evaluation with a lawyer today to learn more about taking legal action over motorcycle defects and recalls in Pinellas Park.