Previously Replaced Airbags Recalled Again Due To Possible Unsafe Condition
This week, the U.S. Transportation Secretary announced the recall of more than 2.12 million Acura, Dodge, Jeep, Honda, Pontiac, and Toyota vehicles due to a defect that may cause the vehicle’s airbags to randomly deploy. The recall was initiated after the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) determined that manufacturers’ original attempts to fix the defective airbags was found to not actually prevent the random deployment of some previously replaced airbags. The recalled models include the following vehicles manufactured between 2002 and 2004:
Acura MDS
Dodge Viper
Jeep Grand Cherokee
Jeep Liberty
Honda Odyssey
Pontiac Vibe
Toyota Corolla
Toyota Matrix
Toyota Avalon
Original Fix Not Sufficient To Stop Random Airbag Deployments
All of these vehicles subject to the recall had previously been recalled because of faulty airbag problems. The vehicle manufacturers had tried to fix the problem of airbags deploying even when no crash occurred. Initially, the carmakers had tried to fix the inadvertent deployment by partially replacing the airbag’s electronic control unit with a part made by TRW Automotive Holdings Corp. of Livonia, Michigan. However, this original fix was found to not be successful in preventing the random deployment of airbags in 39 vehicles which had previously had the control unit part replaced.
Complicating things is the fact that approximately 1 million Toyota and Honda vehicles that are part of this second recall are also part of a separate airbag-related recall related to defective airbags made by the Takata Corporation. The vehicles that are subject to the Takata airbag recall have airbags that have plastic or metal parts which may break loose when the airbag deploys, causing the driver to be hit with bag-related shrapnel, which can cause injury or death.
In nine cars, the vehicles had problems that included both the inadvertent deployment of the airbag and an airbag rupture. Three of these deployments caused injuries (including eye injuries), scratches, and burns.
Florida Legal Help For Those Injured By Faulty Airbag Deployment
Consumers who have vehicles that were subject to the original airbag recall have been urged by NHTSA to take their vehicles to their local dealer for the original remedy, because NHTSA says that the original remedy “significantly reduces the chance of an airbag deployment.” Because this is a temporary fix, NHTSA acknowledges that the owners will have to return to the dealer to have the unit fully replaced when they receive notification that the part is available.
If you or someone you love has been injured by the deployment of an airbag in the absence of a crash, the Tallahassee automobile accident attorneys at Fasig & Brooks encourage you to seek medical attention. Injuries caused by car accidents can cause injuries that are not immediately apparent. A medical exam will help you receive the treatment you deserve, as well as document your injuries.
Also, if you are injured we encourage you to keep a detailed record of all of your accident-related information, including the names of all those involved in the car accident and any witnesses, insurance information if another driver was involved, plus information on doctors visited and their recommendations. Also keep information on any expenditures, bills, and expenses you incur.
Fasig & Brooks also encourages you to consult with an experienced Tallahassee car accident lawyer as soon as you are able. Our attorneys are experienced at helping accident victims protect their legal rights. Call us today at (850) 222-3232 or use our online contact form so we can advise you on how to make sure you are fully compensated for your injuries, pain, suffering, and vehicle damage.
