The massive recall of Takata airbags has expanded again, with eight different automakers recalling more than 12 million cars as a result of the faulty auto parts.
The Takata airbags were discovered to be defective because the materials would erode under extreme heat conditions and then explode upon impact. Auto safety experts with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) have investigated accidents involving the defective car parts and found that the airbags can expand too rapidly and cause shrapnel to fly into vehicle drivers and passengers.
There have been reports of 13 deaths and more than 100 injuries caused by the faulty airbags.
As a result of the airbag problem, carmakers have already recalled 50 million motor vehicles throughout the United States and across the globe. In Japan, the government has also recalled seven million vehicles equipped with Takata airbag inflators.
Now several more car manufacturers are recalling their vehicles in connection with the defective airbags. These automakers include Dodge and Honda. The reality is that many auto manufacturers have been affected by the defective auto parts because Takata provides airbags for companies across the auto industry.
It is expected that more automakers will be recalling cars in the days and weeks ahead because there is a great risk of injury to anyone who happens to be using a vehicle with a Takata airbag. Accidents involving Takata airbags could lead to injury or death for vehicle users and serious liability for the auto manufacturers in personal injury lawsuits and product liability lawsuits.
For more information about this recall, read the CNET.com article, “Takata Airbag Inflator Recall Expands to Include 12 Million More Cars.”
If you or a loved one was injured in a car accident caused by someone else’s negligence, or if you sustained injuries because of a defective product, you need to talk to a qualified personal injury and product liability attorney. The experienced New Jersey product liability lawyers at Andres, Berger & Tran can help you get compensated for your injuries. Contact us now to schedule a free consultation about your case.
