Yes - and in Washington, a recall is not required to bring a product-liability claim.

If the brake part was defectively designed, defectively manufactured, or sold without adequate warnings, Washington's Product Liability Act, RCW 7.72, may allow a claim even if no recall had been issued when the crash happened. For a Spokane crash, the usual filing deadline for injury claims is 3 years from the injury date under RCW 4.16.080.

If the problem was the part itself, the claim is usually aimed first at the manufacturer. A recalled master cylinder, brake line, caliper, or ABS component that failed during spring or summer riding season can support a strong defect theory, especially if the failure caused loss of stopping distance on roads like Division Street, I-90 ramps, or smoke-reduced visibility conditions during late-summer wildfire season.

If the part was sold by a dealer, shop, or parts store, the seller may also be liable in some Washington cases. Sellers are not automatically off the hook. They can face liability if they made express promises about safety, altered the product, or if the manufacturer cannot be brought before the court. Keep the receipt, packaging, recall notice, and the damaged bike.

If the brake part was installed incorrectly, that points to a separate claim against the installer or repair shop for negligent installation. That is different from a defect claim. A bad torque setting, contaminated brake fluid, or improper bleeding can make the installer the main target even when the part was not defective.

Do these things immediately:

• Preserve the motorcycle, failed brake parts, helmet, and service records
• Do not let an insurer salvage or destroy the bike
• Check NHTSA recall records and any Washington State Patrol collision report
• Get the exact VIN, part number, and installation date

If your husband died from the crash, Washington allows a wrongful death claim, but who files it is controlled by specific Washington statutes and family relationship rules.