Do you know the signs of a faulty lift kit for trucks? Lift kits for trucks may prove dangerous. A Suffolk County personal injury attorney can help decide if you should file a claim if you suffered injury as a result of using these kits.
Sometimes, truck owners will customize their vehicles for aesthetics, utility, or both. One such adjustment is a lift kit, which can elevate the truck well above other vehicles. While some might consider it a good or useful look, it may also pose serious risks.
The Problem with Lift Kits
Lifting a truck may allow drivers to better see traffic which can help them avoid traffic jams. But the kits used to elevate the truck for this usefulness may also increase the severity of injuries sustained in an accident.
An elevated truck slamming into another vehicle may result in catastrophic or fatal injuries for the victim, which may not have otherwise happened had the truck not been lifted above its factory height. In such cases, not only could the driver be held liable, but the company that makes the lift could also be considered liable in a claim.
Lifted trucks may make the vehicle more unstable than other vehicles. This is especially dangerous if the driver swerves to avoid a hazard in the road, or takes a fast, sharp turn. Elevated trucks may also lead to braking issues, as a lifted truck requires larger tires, putting more strain on the brakes.
Raised trucks may also be more prone to roll over, which may pose various scenarios in which serious injuries may occur. Height alterations made to a truck can even impact steering. This may make it more difficult to control trucks that have been altered to increase their height.
What’s more, elevated headlights may make it difficult to see the road if the headlights are not properly readjusted so they are aimed at the road or if other lights are not installed. Those who are behind the wheel of a lifted truck may not be able to see children, bicycles, or other small objects/people as easily as other drivers. Numerous problems are possible with these altered trucks, which some might argue outweigh their benefits.
In addition, some laws may limit the truck owner’s ability to raise the truck. Depending on the state you reside in, there may be limitations to a truck’s height or the size of its tires. If a truck is altered through a lift kit, it may carry a significant risk of severely injuring or killing another driver or individual when involved in an accident.
Damages in a Dangerous Product Claim
If you or someone you love sustained severe or fatal injuries resulting from an accident with a truck modified to increase its height, compensation may be available. Not only could the driver of the truck be held liable, victims may speak with their lawyer to discuss whether the lift kit manufacturer may be held liable as well.
A dangerous product claim can address the damages you have suffered:
- hospital and medical expenses;
- lost income;
- pain and suffering;
- mental anguish;
- disfigurement;
- burial and funeral costs, and more.
Contacting a Suffolk County Personal Injury Attorney
Any accident can be devastating. But when you know that the injuries were more severe because of a dangerous product, it can only add to the trauma. You may feel intimidated attempting to file a claim against a manufacturer. Don’t let this stop you from receiving the compensation to which you may be entitled.
If you would like to learn how you can protect your claim and your rights, contact a Suffolk County personal injury attorney at Gacovino, Lake & Associates. We focus on helping victims recover from their injuries and seeking justice. Our law firm helps clients nationwide, along with residents of the five boroughs. Contact us today – 800-246-4878.
