If you were in a car accident and the investigation determined that a defective part or component of your vehicle was to blame for the crash, you may be able to file a claim against the manufacturer. However, there are certain circumstances under which you are not able to file a claim with the manufacturer after a car accident due to the fact that the car warranty was voided by actions taken by the owner or driver. The following issues or circumstances can void your car warranty and leave you with the responsibility of paying for damages following a car accident.
Dangerous Driving
Manufacturers expect that the drivers of vehicles will operate them in a safe manner, and in the way that was originally intended. If a driver of a vehicle makes the decision to race the car or compete in any way with the car, the warranty will likely be voided and you will be responsible for any damage that occurs in a subsequent accident. Again, most manufacturers expect that the owner and driver of a car will operate the car only within the normal scope and use that was intended by the manufacturer. High speeds or other types of racing can place stress and additional unexpected wear and tear on a vehicle. Some manufacturers actually look up racing events in different areas to see if their cars are being used by drivers, and will void the warranty if they detect that their vehicle is being operated inappropriately.
Natural Disasters
Some natural disasters, such as tornadoes, hurricanes, and hail storms are completely out of your control. Unfortunately, many of these natural disasters will void a warranty on a vehicle. If your vehicle suffered damage due to a natural disaster, contact the manufacturer to determine if the weather event impacted your warranty.
Car Maintenance
Every car comes with a recommended vehicle maintenance schedule. Most people do not strictly follow their car maintenance schedule, which can actually void the warranty on the car. It is important to follow these guidelines for oil changes and other parts and components. Following the recommended schedule to service your car regularly will ensure that it not only performs properly, but that the warranty remains intact.
Unapproved Modifications
You have the legal right as a car owner to modify your vehicle any way you choose under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act. However, if that modification damages any part of your car, it will not be covered under the car warranty.
Odometer Changes
Your odometer signifies the number of miles, age, and use of your vehicle over time. If you attempt to change or alter your odometer in any way, it is actually considered fraud under the law and will void your warranty.
Contact an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney
If you were injured in a car accident that was determined to be due to a manufacturer defect, you may have the right to sue the manufacturer for your injuries or damage to your car. However, if you made any changes to the car or operated the vehicle outside the normal scope of reasonable activities, you may find that the manufacturer will void the warranty. Contact an experienced personal injury attorney at Griggs Injury Law at (816) 474-0202 to help you determine how best to build your personal injury case following a car accident.
