1 in 7 Cars in U.S. Affected by Sweeping Air Bag Recall
In what looks to be the largest auto recall in U.S. history, Takata auto parts company has broadcast a serious flaw with an air bag inflator that exists in thousands of cars currently on U.S. roadways.
About 1 in 7 automobiles on U.S. roads are affected by this recall from Takata, according to a report by the Chicago Tribune. The faulty air bag inflator can erupt and spray metal shrapnel into the faces and chests of drivers and/or passengers.
Almost 34 million vehicles from model year 2000 and on from 10 different automakers in the United States have been affected by the recall.
The Japanese auto parts company is still working to pinpoint the exact reason for the air bag defect, but it has said that the product’s dangerous defect may be triggered more so in humid regions.
The defective air bags have so far killed 6 people and injured about 100 people worldwide, according to the report. Last year was a record-breaking time for vehicle recalls. There were 63.9 million cars recalled, which doubled the previous record high of 30 million in 2004.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has urged all affected car owners to take their vehicles to their closest dealer right away. Dealers will replace the potentially life-threatening air bags for free.
To check and see if your vehicle is affected by the recall, check this website now.
Common defective auto parts
Air bags are just one part of the car that can be faulty. Some of the most common defective auto parts include:
- Defective brakes: This could occur because of malfunctioning or defective brake pads, rotors, shoes or drums. Sometimes the defect can be chalked up to poor brake design. This can be a serious issue while on the roadway. Defective brakes can cause a driver to create an accident with another vehicle, a pedestrian or bicyclist.
- Defective tires: Tires, if not made from quality materials, can cause major issues on the roadways. Tires can blowout, which can then cause the car to drive off the roadway or roll over.
- Defective seat belts: Seat belts are mandated by law in most states because they provide an extra layer of protection while on the road. But if your seat belt is defective, it can do the opposite.
- Defective car seats: Children are precious cargo. Car seats are ubiquitous because they provide protection for our small ones. But if its plastic shell cracks, the latch comes undone or the clips become loose, the results can be deadly.
- Vehicle rollovers: If a vehicle is designed in such a way that its center of gravity is not optimal, it can create an unsafe situation for the driver and passengers. If a driver takes a turn too tightly, the vehicle could roll over, which can result in serious injury or death.
Injured because of a defective auto part?
If you’ve been injured or lost a loved one due to a defective auto part, contact the lawyers at Boone & Davis in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. We can help you get the compensation you deserve. Reach out to us today for help.
