The Largest Auto Parts Recall in US History Is Underway
Michael Babboni
Recalls
The last several years have been rough ones for the auto industry, with a seemingly endless stream of recalls taking place after major accidents. From the Toyota acceleration issue to the massive GM ignition switch recall, these recalls have placed a spotlight on the importance of strict quality control measures within the auto industry.Accidents caused by faulty auto parts are among the most deadly that can occur because the lead to things like inability to control a vehicle, explosions, and more. Even something like the faulty design of a vehicle – the top-heavy, rollover-prone SUVs of the 90s, for example – can be considered to be an issue that manufacturers are responsible for.
Currently, the largest auto parts recall in history is taking place and centers on airbags manufactured by the Japanese company Takata. Here's a look at some of the key numbers and facts related to this recall.
- The problem stems from defective devices in the airbag systems that could cause the airbag to deploy improperly. When the defect is present, it could shoot metal shrapnel into the cabin and into vehicle drivers and passengers.
- 34 million vehicles are affected in the US alone
- An additional 7 million recalls have been issued around the country
- There have been several deaths linked to this problem, and many other serious accidents have stemmed from the problem – 139 injuries reported as of September of 2012.
- The problems are related to a wide range of issues including rust, bad welding jobs, and much more.
- Studies have found that the Takata plant allows a defect rate that is between 6 and 8 times that of what acceptable limits are set at.
- Recent reports suggest that the company knew about the problems with the airbags but chose not to disclose the issue – instead disposing of data that was related to the problem a full four years before the recall was issued.
Currently, vehicles made by ten different automakers are affected by the recall. It primarily impacts vehicles made from 2002 to 2008 but could affect vehicles made all the way through 2014. Vehicles affected include those from Ford, GM, Honda, Lexus, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Mazda, Mitsubishi, BMW, Pontiac, Nissan, Toyota, and more.
So just how does this recall impact you and your safety? If you haven't already been involved in an accident and suffered injuries related to the airbags, you should immediately return your vehicle to the manufacturer in order to have it repaired free of charge. Ignoring the recall essentially negates the company from any further responsibility and as such, if you're injured in the future you won't be able to seek financial compensation.
However, if you were injured seriously in an accident that involved a defective airbag and that accident occurred prior to the recall being issued, you could be owed compensation. You'll have to prove that your injuries were directly caused by the airbag and that you had no knowledge of the recall, but if those conditions are met there is a good chance that you can receive compensation for your injuries.
We can help. Contact our offices to get a free consultation and to let our professionals determine whether or not you have the legal grounds to seek financial compensation for your injuries. We have offices in St Petersburg ant throughout the rest of the state, and our team has more than 100 years combined legal experience ready to work for you. We'll help you figure out what the next step you should take needs to be, and how to get what you deserve. Recall related accidents can be difficult to prove, but our team has a proven record of success.