While victims of any car accident can suffer serious injuries, the injuries can be much more catastrophic if one of the vehicles catches on fire. Individuals trapped in a burning car can suffer lung damage, disfigurement, scarring, and other long-term injuries. If you or a family member suffered injuries in a car fire, it is essential to determine the cause of the fire, because this will help identify the negligent party responsible for compensating you.

Leading Causes of Car Fires

Car fires are caused by a variety of reasons that do not always involve a driver’s negligence. Here are some common causes:

Vehicle Design Defect

In some cases, the motor vehicle catches on fire in a collision due to a manufacturing or design defect in one of its parts, such as an electrical component or fuel tank. In this situation, the victim may have a products liability claim against the manufacturer of the vehicle or the defective part.

Mechanical and Electrical Malfunctions

Faulty wiring, exhaust or gas tank leaks, or electrical glitches of a radio, seat warmer, sun roof, or other electrical component can lead to a deadly fire. These malfunctions can be caused by faulty parts, lack of maintenance by the owner, or negligent maintenance by a repair facility.

High-Speed Collisions

When two or more vehicles collide, the gas tank on one or both of them could rupture and cause a fire. In addition, sparks caused by scraping metal or severed wires can ignite flammable liquids in a wreck—with tragic results for the victims trapped inside their car.

Have You Been Injured In A Car Accident?

If you’ve been in a Georgia or South Carolina car accident you need to speak with an experienced car accident lawyer as soon as possible. Please contact us online or call our Augusta office directly at 706.863.6600 to schedule your free consultation.