A NASHVILLE INJURY ATTORNEY DISCUSSES NOTABLE RECALLS IN 2013
Many remember the Toyota recalls of 2009 when some 5 million vehicles were recalled in part because of wrongful deaths caused by faulty accelerators. Every year, defective products hurt hundreds of thousands of people. Some of these injuries and deaths occur due to defective auto parts and vehicles.
RECALLED VEHICLES IN 2013
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is the government agency that typically handles vehicle recalls; however, the U.S. Department of Transportation also issues public safety warnings about defective vehicles and car parts.
Every year, vehicles of many different makes, models and styles are recalled. This year, some of the largest recalls concerned:
- 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokees
- 2014 BMW Z4s
- 2013 Mazda 6s
- 2008-2010 BMW 5-Series
- 2004 Honda Odysseys
- 2008 Suzuki Grand Vitaras
- 2011 Toyota Rav4s
- 2013 Lexus GS350s
- 2011-2012 Chevrolet Cruzes
The causes for these recalls were varied, but they all presented serious safety hazards to drivers and vehicle occupants. Some defects included faulty brake systems, sticky accelerators and doors that suddenly opened while the vehicle was in motion.
HOW DO I KNOW IF MY VEHICLE WAS RECALLED?
In many cases, the dealership where you purchased your vehicle will receive notice of the recall via the corporate office, and the dealer should contact you if the recall affects your vehicle.
Vehicle recalls often affect hundreds of thousands of people, so even if you are not directly notified of a defect, the problem may be large enough to warrant coverage by a local newspaper. Many publications feature a “consumer alerts” section that informs readers of potentially dangerous products on the market.
WHAT KINDS OF DEFECTS CAUSE RECALLS?
The NHTSA recalls vehicles for many different reasons. However, common causes for recalls include:
- Steering components that suddenly break
- Faulty windshield wiper assemblies
- Wiring systems that result in fire
- Airbags that do not deploy, or deploy at inappropriate times
- Vehicle parts that suddenly fall off or separate from the vehicle
WHAT CAN I DO IF MY VEHICLE IS DEFECTIVE?
If you suspect that your vehicle is dangerously defective, call NHSTA and report your suspicions. If the vehicle has already caused you or your family harm, help is available. Contact our Nashville injury lawyer if you suffered injuries due to a faulty car part. Even if a recall has not been issued, you can still pursue compensation for the injuries you suffered. For a free consultation, call (615) 866-3938.