Injured By A Hyundai or Kia Vehicle?

If you own a Hyundai or Kia that has caught fire spontaneously without being involved in a crash or accident of any kind, you could be entitled to substantial compensation from your car company. These types of product recall/defective product cases can be somewhat complex, and as such, it is highly recommended to retain the services of an experienced and qualified product liability attorney near you to help you navigate the claim process and recover maximum damages. At the Law Offices of Rodemer | Kane, with years of experience handling vehicle fire litigation, we can help with these types of claims on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case. Contact our Colorado Springs law office online or call us at 719-437-7286 to set up a free case consultation and case evaluation to determine if you qualify for compensation.

The History of Hyundai and Kia Car Fires

Numerous incidents of spontaneous car fires involving Hyundai and Kia vehicles have been reported over the last few years. An investigation by the NHTSA into these reports discovered that models as far back as 2011, including vehicles with Theta engine and GDI engine designs, were impacted by faulty manufacturing that led to a heightened risk of engine failure, which would cause a dangerous non-collision fire. While the automakers did initiate recalls and addressed certain issues, concerns persist among consumers regarding the overall vehicle safety of these vehicles.

A number of engine models were found to have faulty connecting rod bearings in their engines, which caused a larger problem of complete engine failure. These bearings are crucial for the engine to work properly. As the engines operated, the metal pieces within these bearings wore out over time and caused metal debris to move around in the engine along with the engine oil. Over time, this debris accumulated, causing two main problems. First, the rod bearings began to fracture and break, which is not good for the engine’s health. Second, the debris piled up so much that it clogged the oil filters in the engine, making it difficult for them to clean out impurities from the engine oil. This, in turn, led to a drop in oil pressure, and when the engine doesn’t get the right oil pressure, it can eventually fail, causing the engine to stop working or to catch fire even while parked or in the engine compartment without warning.

Once engine fires began to be reported for these vehicles, regulatory authorities, including the NHTSA, stepped in and heightened scrutiny on the safety of these vehicles, discovering millions that were impacted by this widespread manufacturing defect.

How To Sue Hyundai and Kia After A Car Fire

Consumers who have experienced car fires with Hyundai or Kia vehicles have the ability to file a product liability claim. Product liability cases revolve around proving that a product was defective and that this defect directly caused the injury or damage. In the context of these car fires, the design defect and manufacturing error are major defect, which makes Hyundai and Kia liable for damages, including property damage, medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

The fact that Hyundai and Kia issued recalls related to engine and fire risks acknowledges that they know there is the existence of safety concerns. This admission is crucial for establishing liability and proving negligence in these cases. Because so many people have been affected by these defective cars, a class action lawsuit has been issued against the carmakers. A class action lawsuit consolidates multiple claims into a single case, streamlining legal proceedings and providing a collective voice for affected consumers.

If you own a Hyundai or Kia that has had an engine fire, you have the ability to automatically be included in the legal proceedings through the class action lawsuit. However, depending on the circumstances of your case, the severity of injuries or damage resulting in such as total loss of your vehicle or significant medical expenses it may make more sense to opt out of the class action suit and pursue an individual claim to potentially recover more substantial compensation. It is always advised to speak with a qualified and licensed product liability attorney near you for counsel about the best course of action in these situations.

Understanding Your Legal Options and the Claims Process

Many vehicle owners ask: “Do I need a lawyer?” and “How much is my case worth?” The answer depends on several factors. If your Hyundai or Kia caught fire and resulted in a total loss, property damage, or injuries, you may be eligible for fair compensation. The statute of limitations sets a filing deadline for your claim, so it’s urgent to consult with an attorney immediately to protect your rights.

Our dedicated attorneys represent clients on a no-win, no-fee basis, meaning you can afford legal representation regardless of your financial situation. We handle all aspects of litigation, from filing your claim to negotiating with insurance companies and the defendant manufacturers. Whether your case requires settlement negotiations or going to court, our proven trial experience ensures you receive aggressive representation throughout the discovery and deposition process.

Which Vehicles Are Affected?

If you’re wondering “Is my vehicle affected?” or “Which models are recalled?”, you can check your vehicle identification number (VIN) against the recall notice and safety campaign lists. Affected model years include various Hyundai and Kia vehicles from 2011 forward. Owners should inspect their vehicles and report any fire hazards or engine issues to authorities immediately. Even if your car hasn’t caught fire yet, it may still be unsafe to drive if it’s part of the recalled models.

Contact A Product Liability Attorney in Colorado Springs About Your Hyundai or Kia Car Fire Case

The Hyundai and Kia car fire lawsuits underscore the importance of consumer safety and the responsibility of automakers to deliver products free from defects. If you have suffered a car fire involving a Hyundai or Kia vehicle, contact the experienced personal injury attorneys at the Law Offices of Rodemer Kane online or call us at 719-437-7286 to set up a free case consultation with one of our catastrophic injury lawyers near you. Our legal professionals who are certified and successful in handling complex product liability cases can assess the specific details of your case, guide you through the available legal options, and help you pursue compensation for damages incurred, including economic damages, non-economic damages, and potentially punitive damages. As investigations continue, consumers have the right to demand accountability and seek justice for any harm caused by defects in their vehicles. And if you have lost a loved one due to a car fire we invite you to speak with one of our Colorado Springs wrongful death lawyers about how we can best serve you with compassionate and dedicated legal representation.

Don’t wait — the statute of limitations may limit how long you have to file your claim. Contact us today for a confidential consultation to discuss your legal strategy, documentation requirements, and the full value of your claim. We’ll help you understand what evidence you need, whether you should join the class action or pursue an individual lawsuit, and how long your case may take. Our goal is to help you recover fair and maximum compensation for all out-of-pocket costs, including towing expenses, rental car costs, and diminished value of your vehicle.

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