In Delaware, drivers have a legal duty to keep their vehicles in safe working condition. When someone fails to do so and that negligence causes a crash, they may be held liable for the resulting injuries and damages.
An objectively unsafe vehicle that’s been poorly maintained or has defective equipment can pose a serious risk to everyone on the road.
When is a vehicle considered unsafe?
Common examples of unsafe vehicle conditions that can lead to liability include worn-out brakes, bald tires, broken headlights or taillights, faulty steering systems and windshield wipers that fail in bad weather. These mechanical problems can prevent a driver from reacting quickly, seeing clearly or controlling their vehicle properly. If a crash occurs because of such issues and the owner knew or should have known about the problem, they could be considered negligent.
In some cases, a vehicle’s owner may not be its driver. For example, if a business allows an employee to drive a company car that hasn’t been properly maintained, the business could be held liable. Similarly, if someone lends their vehicle to another person knowing it’s unsafe, they might also be responsible for any harm caused by a crash.
It’s also important to note that manufacturers can be held liable if a vehicle defect contributes to a crash. If a design flaw or defective part is to blame, an injured party may have a valid product liability claim against the carmaker or parts supplier.
At the end of the day, vehicle safety matters—and those who ignore it can and should be held accountable. Having experienced legal guidance can help those who have been injured by another driver’s unsafe vehicle seek justice and compensation.