MASSIVE AIRBAG RECALL: What You Need to Know
More than 14 million vehicles from 11 auto manufacturers worldwide have been recalled due to defective airbags. Japanese-based supplier Takata Corp reportedly made the inflator mechanisms in the airbags. Allegedly, inflator mechanisms in the airbags can rupture and explode with excessive force, hurling metal fragments at high speeds.
Media outlets have linked at least three deaths with the airbags. On October 21, the New York Times reported that detectives who were originally investigating what looked like severe and fatal stab wounds suffered by an Orlando, Florida woman ultimately concluded that the woman’s death was caused by the airbags.
The Globe and Mail recently reported that 200,000 vehicles have been recalled in Canada due to potential concerns regarding airbags.
In the United States, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has urged owners of certain Toyota, Honda, Mazda, BMW, Nissan, Mitsubishi, Subaru, Chrysler, Ford and General Motors vehicles to “act immediately” on recall notices to replace “defective Takata airbags”.
The NHTSA has advised that the problem may be triggered by “extended exposure to consistently high humidity and temperatures”.
Transport Canada has so far declined to issue an advisory similar to the one issued by the NHTSA. However, Transport Canada recommends that Canadian consumers check with its Road Safety Recalls Database or consult vehicle manufacturers for recall information regarding their vehicles.
If you or a loved one has been injured as a result of a defective airbag, you should contact an experienced personal injury lawyer immediately.
