Believe it or not, a large number of auto accidents every year are caused by car defects. Automobile manufacturers are required by law to design and engineer automobiles that meet an all-around safety standard that keeps drivers safe under any type of driving condition. Even though technology has improved the accuracy of the manufacturing process, problems with the functionality and design of vehicles still exists.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is continually probing new vehicles on the market to uncover any defects or weaknesses that may exist. In 2010, the Toyota Motor Corporation was sued for the maximum civil penalty of $16.375 million for failing to notify the NHTSA of a "sticky pedal" defect for at least four months, even though they knew it posed a risk to customers. This penalty was the largest civil penalty ever brought against an auto manufacturer by the NHTSA, and reflects a growing concern about the safety hazards presented by automobile defects.

As a consumer who uses their automobile on a daily basis, it is important for you to understand the main automobile defects that contribute to accidents and crashes. When even one part of a vehicle is not functioning properly, it significantly affects the vehicle's ability to drive smoothly and operate as it was intended. You don't have to be an automobile expert or a mechanic to detect some of these warning signs, and we have included a few below for your information and safety.

First, you can detect some of the major warning signs by simply using your senses of sight, smell and hearing. Some of the major defects that have occurred in past years include problems with fuel components, accelerator controls that stick or break, and steering components that break suddenly. If you have observed an unusual odor coming from your vehicle that is strange or unfamiliar, this may be a sign that there is an electrical short or a setback in emission control mechanisms.

You can also save your vehicle from further damage by examining the stains that are left behind. If you continually see spills under your vehicle, your car may have a faulty gasket, a transmission or power-steering fluid leak, or a busted radiator. Using your ears to detect any unusual sounds such as rattling or ticking will clue you in as to whether your vehicle needs treatment or examination by a mechanic. Those sounds may be telling you that your vehicle has problems with the brakes, a loose air conditioning belt, damaged power steering or a variety of other issues.

If you suspect that your car has a defect that could potentially cause an accident, or if you have suffered injury because of a safety defect, you may be able to seek compensation by filing an injury claim. The United States Code for Motor Vehicle Safety defines a defect as "any defect in performance, construction, a component, or material of a motor vehicle or motor vehicle equipment". Reporting the safety defect to the NHTSA is the first step in seeking justice for the safety defects that led to your injuries or accident. If the agency receives enough similar reports about the same defect or problem, they may open an investigation into the auto manufacturer.

With the help of a skilled car accident lawyer, you may be able to pursue compensation for the injuries that you have suffered from your defect-related automobile accident. It is important to gather as much evidence from the scene of your accident as possible and further investigations may need to be conducted as well. Above all, you should always be on the alert for any potential defects or problems with your automobile to ensure safety on the road for you and other drivers in the future.