What You Need To Know About Vehicle Recalls
Michael Babboni
Recalls
Vehicle recalls have become a common occurrence. If your vehicle has to be recalled or you have become the victim of a car crash due to a defective vehicle, it’s vital to know everything you can about auto recalls.Safety Recall
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a safety recall takes place if the manufacturer or the NHTSA determines that a vehicle or its equipment poses a risk or does not meet motor vehicle safety standards. Safety recalls may have to do with the entire vehicle or specific equipment such as airbags, tires, or even car seats.
On the other hand, if a significant number of consumers file complaints with the NHTSA or there have been enough safety incidents that result from the defect, the NHTSA can request an automaker for a vehicle recall.
Vehicle recalls can take place years after a specific model has been released. Big recalls always make it to the news. In contrast, small ones are usually voluntary and often a result of oversight or insufficient testing before the car was released in the market.
The vehicles that are subject for recall go through a process by the NHTSA:
• Screening
• Petition Analysis
• Investigation
• Recall Management
What Does It Mean?
Vehicle recalls are important for consumers to monitor. Over the past few years, vehicle recalls have hit a high record. Moreover, driving a vehicle with a recall in effect can be a safety hazard and put you and other people on the road in danger. Even if a safety defect doesn’t cause a crash, know that it can certainly make one much worse.
How Will You Know About It?
Once the NTHSA finalizes the decision for a recall and a report has already been filed, the manufacturers need to notify registered owners and purchasers of the vehicles by first class mail within 60 days.
The letter must have all the necessary details to let owners know how they can get the issue resolved, the time frame for when the fix will be available, how long the repair will take, and whom to contact should there be an issue about the repair. The letter must also indicate that the vehicle owners will not be charged to correct the problem of the car.
Once you receive a recall notification, address it right away. In most cases, the automaker will offer to fix the defect at a certified dealership free of charge.
What Happens If You Got Into A Car Accident?
Vehicle defects can cause fatal car wrecks, and unfortunately, some automakers put profits first at the expense of consumer safety. If you have been injured or lost a loved one in a car crash due to a safety defect or vehicle recall, you need a car accident attorney.
An auto accident lawyer will investigate the issue and uncover every detail to determine who’s at fault. With legal representation, you can guarantee that you will get the compensation you deserve. Car accident lawyers deal with car manufacturers, insurance companies, and more to defend their victims.