The automotive world has been buzzing lately about the massive airbag recall that's affected over 7.8 million U.S. vehicles and nearly a dozen different car manufacturers. However, many consumers are still unsure as to what the recall means and whether it affects them. There are dozens of news articles coming out every hour, but knowing what information is important often proves to be difficult for many people. If you've been keeping up with the latest news on the Takata airbag recall – or even if you haven't – here are some of the most important things that you need to know about the recall:
What Is the Problem With the Airbags?
The issue involves Takata airbags that deploy with such force that they rupture and fail to protect drivers during an accident. Additionally, the airbags are shooting metal fragments into people when they deploy during an accident. Recently, Takata, the airbag manufacturer, publicly admitted that it changed the chemical mix of its airbag inflator propellant in the newly designed inflators. This could be what's causing the airbags to shoot out metal at vehicle occupants.
When Did the Recall Happen? Is It Recent?
Initially, only six car manufacturers were involved when Takata announced the problem in April 2013, but a Toyota recall in June prompted more automakers to issue recalls as well. In July, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) forced additional regional recalls in high-humidity areas including Florida, Hawaii and the U.S. Virgin Islands and asked them to gather removed parts and send them to Takata for review. Another major recall was issued on October 20th, which expanded the affected vehicles across additional car manufacturers.
Who Does the Recall Affect?
Initially, the recall appeared to be a problem related to extended exposure to high humidity and temperatures. However, many people in the automotive industry were uncertain as to whether limiting the Tataka airbag recall to certain areas was justified. After a new complaint in North Carolina, the NHTSA expanded the recall to be nationwide. Airbag recall affects many major car manufacturers including Ford, Honda, Toyota, Mazda, Nissan and more. The full list of recalled vehicles can be found on the NHTSA website.
Why Does It Matter?
Due to the nature of the recall and its effect on personal safety, it's important that you do your research and find out if your vehicle is part of the Takata airbag recall. If you're uncertain as to whether your vehicle has been impacted by the recall, contact your car's manufacturer and provide them with your vehicle identification number (VIN) to confirm whether your vehicle is involved in an open recall.
If you or anyone you know has one of these vehicles and is interested in seeking advice concerning their legal rights, please reach out to us to schedule your free 30-minute consultation.
