Florida Tesla Fire Raises Questions about Defective Cars and Liability
A recent Tesla crash that involved the car catching fire and killed two teens is now being investigated by authorities.
A 2014 Tesla Model S allegedly had a battery fire, which led to the deaths of two 18-year-old male teens. A third teenaged male was ejected from the vehicle and was treated for injuries. The police report indicates that speed played a role in the crash. The Fort Lauderdale incident is now under investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).
In this post, we’ll discuss how auto defects create liability for crash injuries, and we’ll explain how compensation works for car crash product liability cases.
Numerous Tesla Accidents Involving Fires
Tesla cars have been in the news for several fires over the past few years. Here is a rundown of recent examples. Unless noted, these fires did not cause injuries or deaths.
2018
In California, a Tesla Model X driver was killed after a crash and fire involving two other vehicles.
In Florida, a Tesla Model S caught fire when it hit a concrete wall, which killed two teens and injured another.
2017
A Tesla Model S caught fire in China.
A California driver was injured when a Tesla went off the road and crashed into a house, causing the garage to catch fire.
In Austria, a Tesla Model S caught fire when the driver collided with a concrete barrier.
2016
In France, a Tesla caught fire during the company’s promotional tour.
In Indiana, a driver and passenger were killed when a Tesla crashed into a tree and caught fire.
2014
In Canada, a fire came from the engine of a Tesla Model S.
2013
Near Seattle, a Tesla Model S caught fire after the driver collided with metal road debris.
In Mexico, a Tesla car was involved in a single-auto crash with a concrete wall and then a tree, resulting in a fire.
In Tennessee, a Tesla Model S ran over a hitch that damaged the vehicle’s undercarriage, which caused a fire.
Product Liability Claims Related to Florida Auto Accidents
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident that involved a defective vehicle, you may have grounds to sue the manufacturer for product liability.
Typically you can sue based on either defects in manufacturing or for vehicle design that is unreasonably dangerous. A defect in manufacturing normally involves an error at the factory or plant, or an issue that arises during shipping or at the dealership. If a part is manufactured properly, you may still be able to sue for improper design that results in injury.
How a Florida Car Injury Attorney Can Help
A skilled Florida auto accident attorney can help you determine who is responsible for your accident.
Your lawyer will identify the various parties who can be held liable for your claim. Whether you were injured in an accident involving a Tesla or any other vehicle, a knowledgeable injury attorney will understand what type of negligence was involved, including if product liability is a factor.
Call today for your free consultation if you have been injured by another’s negligence in a car crash, and we will fight hard to get you the compensation you need and deserve.
About the Author:
A partner at Ben Murphey tries complex disputes that include civil appeals, maritime and admiralty claims, wrongful death, and labor disputes. Mr. Murphey has been recognized for his excellence in the area of personal injury litigation by being rewarded with a 10/10 Avvo Rating and named a Super Lawyers “Rising Star” for the last four consecutive years (2011-2014). Mr. Murphey regularly tries cases in state and federal courts around the country, being admitted to practice before all Florida courts and the United States Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit.