The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recently issued a critical alert concerning substandard replacement airbags, bringing airbag safety back into the spotlight years after the largest recall in automotive history. This latest warning highlights the dangers posed by defective replacement airbags installed in vehicles after crashes, posing serious risks to drivers and passengers alike.
The Current Situation
Over the past year, five incidents involving these substandard replacement airbags have resulted in three deaths and two life-altering injuries. Each of these cases involved vehicles that had been in previous accidents and had their original airbags replaced with faulty inflators. Investigations revealed that most of these defective airbags were manufactured overseas, raising concerns about the quality and safety standards of imported automotive parts.
The NHTSA’s recent alert specifically addresses replacement airbags installed following vehicle crashes. Unlike the original equipment manufacturer airbags, these replacement parts often come from different suppliers, sometimes without rigorous quality control. The faulty inflators in question were primarily manufactured overseas, where regulatory standards may differ significantly from those in the United States.
The Risks of Defective Airbags
Airbags are a critical safety feature designed to protect occupants during collisions by reducing the impact force on their bodies. However, when replacement airbags are substandard or defective, they can fail to deploy correctly or, in some cases, explode with excessive force, causing severe injuries or fatalities. In this case, these replacement airbags can send large metal fragments into drivers’ chests, necks, eyes, and faces at high velocity, killing or severely injuring them in what otherwise could be survivable crashes. The incidents reported over the past year underline the potentially deadly consequences of relying on inferior replacement parts.
NHTSA’s Response and Recommendations
In response to these recent incidents, the NHTSA has launched an investigation into the sources of these substandard replacement airbags and is working with automakers and suppliers to identify affected vehicles. The agency has also issued recommendations for consumers and repair shops:
- Verify the Source of Replacement Airbags: Consumers should ensure that replacement airbags are sourced from reputable manufacturers and meet safety standards.
- Check for Recalls: Vehicle owners should regularly check for any airbag-related recalls and have their vehicles inspected and repaired as necessary.
- Report Issues: Any suspected issues with airbags should be reported to the NHTSA to aid in their investigation and prevent further incidents.
Steps to Take if You Suspect a Defective Airbag
- Check Recalls: Vehicle owners should regularly check the NHTSA website for recalls and alerts related to their vehicle’s make and model.
- Inspection: If a vehicle has been in a crash and had its airbags replaced, it is advisable to have the replacement airbags inspected by a qualified professional.
- Report Issues: Any suspected defects or malfunctions should be reported to the NHTSA and the vehicle manufacturer.
- Legal Advice: If injuries have occurred due to a defective airbag, seeking legal advice can help determine potential compensation and hold responsible parties accountable.
Legal Options for Airbag Defect Victims
This latest NHTSA alert underscores the importance of vigilance and advocacy for clients affected by defective automotive parts. Individuals harmed by defective airbags may have the right to pursue legal recourse against manufacturers, suppliers, and possibly repair shops that installed these dangerous components. Such lawsuits can help recover costs for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related losses.
The process typically starts with an initial consultation with a product liability attorney, who will evaluate the case’s merits. If the case is viable, the attorney will file a complaint, conduct discovery to gather evidence, and potentially negotiate a settlement. If a settlement isn’t reached, the case may proceed to trial.
Types of Damages in Product Liability Lawsuits
Victims of defective airbags can seek several types of damages in a product liability lawsuit:
- Compensatory Damages: Cover direct financial losses, including medical expenses, lost wages, and the cost of ongoing medical care.
- Consequential Damages: Provide compensation for indirect losses, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life.
- Punitive Damages: In cases of gross negligence or misconduct, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the defendant and deter similar future conduct.
How Meyers & Flowers Can Help
The recent NHTSA alert on substandard replacement airbags is a stark reminder of the ongoing risks associated with automotive safety components. As a top personal injury law firm, our Chicago personal injury lawyers know how crucial it is to advocate for victims and push for higher safety standards and accountability within the automotive industry.
If you or someone you know has been affected by these dangerous replacement airbags magnets, don’t hesitate to reach out to us today. Contact us at 630-576-9696 for your free, no obligation case evaluation or click here. At Meyers & Flowers, our track record of large resolutions for victims of dangerous products is a testament to the representation you will receive.