The Takata Airbag Recall

Since the introduction of airbags in the 1980’s, hundreds of thousands of Missouri drivers have been saved from serious injury and even death.

Airbags make such a huge impact on vehicle safety that they were deemed mandatory in vehicles as of 1998. Unfortunately, one manufacturer was negligent in their production, killing 6 and injuring over a 100. As a result, the United States has demanded the largest mass recall in history. If you have been injured because of a Takata airbag, contact the Zevan and Davidson Law Firm immediately for a consultation.

Takata Airbag Recall

The Japanese air bag supplier Takata has been under scrutiny for years due to reports of airbags that would explode with such force that being struck by the debris was equivalent to being hit by shrapnel. The federal government has now responded to the crises by recalling 33.8 million vehicles that are equipped with these lethal life saving devices.

If you are affected by this recall, here are 6 quick facts that you should know:

• It may take some time to determine if your car is a part of the recall. Since the announcement was made recently, the NHTSA is reporting that requests for information on their website are at an all time high. Give them some time to catch up before entering your VIN to avoid the long wait times.
• The exact number and models of vehicles is still not completely known. Since the announcement caught most manufacturers by surprise, there are some who are not exactly sure which makes and models are a part of the recall. Once the NHTSA releases all of the information, you will have a better idea if your car is a part of the recall.
• There is a danger still in vehicles that have not yet had the airbags repaired. The risk is only if you are involved in a car accident when the airbag is deployed and the risk seems to be higher in areas with high humidity.
• Air bag repair parts are readily available. Takata has already made 3.8 million replacement air bag kits over the last 2 years and will continue to do so at a rate of approximately 500,000 each month. Other companies are also producing the repair kits, making it easier to get the air bag fixed. When you do go to the dealer for your repair, it will take about a half an hour to complete the repair.
• You will not incur any out of pocket costs. Although Takata has still avoided admitting that its air bags are defective, they are still responsible for the cost of the repair. No matter which manufacturer you are dealing with, if you show up at a dealer with the defective air bags, they will be fixed at no cost to you.
• Almost every car manufacturer is affected. It is estimated that 1 out of every 7 cars on Missouri roads have the defective airbags.

It is shameful to learn that what is supposed to be a life saving device is actually causing people harm. If you ever have an issue with your car’s airbag during a car accident, call a product liability attorney from Zevan and Davidson to find out how you can be compensated for your injury.

Zevan and Davidson Law Firm

(314) 588-7200