Eight deaths and over 100 injuries have been linked to defective Takata airbags. As a result, more than 30 million vehicles from 10 different manufacturers have been recalled. Consumer Report recently released an exhaustive list of those vehicles, as well as some tips for those affected.
Which Vehicles are Being Recalled and Why?
Toyota, Subaru, Nissan, Mitsubishi, Mazda, Honda, General Motors, Ford, Chrysler, and BMW all have models on the Takata airbag recall list. Most of them were manufactured between 2002 and 2008, but some models have been expanded to 2014. (A comprehensive list of the specific models and years of vehicles being recalled are listed at Consumer Report.)
The recall itself relates specifically to the airbag inflators that contain a metal cartridge loaded with propellant wafers. If those wafers break down, the propellant burns too quickly, which creates excessive pressure in the body of the inflator. In turn, the defective airbag can deploy with explosive force and shoot metal shrapnel into the passenger compartment.
The specific root cause of the airbag defect has yet to be determined. However, speculations point to a number of possible factors, including poor quality control in the manufacturing, years of exposure (particularly in areas of high heat and humidity), and possibly even the actual designs of the vehicles themselves.
Tips for Vehicle Owners Affected by the Takata Recall
Consumer Reports offered some tips for those affected by the recall, particularly those that are not high on the priority list or might have a long wait to have their airbags replaced. Those recommendations included:
- Minimizing your driving as much as possible;
- Carpooling with someone that has a vehicle not affected by the recall;
- Renting a car; and
- Calling the manufacturer for a loaner.
Minimizing the Damage to Those Injured is Unacceptable
According to Consumer Reports, Takata has reported a total of 88 ruptured airbags. The manufacturing company may see these numbers as “miniscule” or “rare” in comparison to the 1.2 million reported deployments of their airbags over the last 15 years, but our product liability attorneys understand that each and every injured person matters.
We fight for justice. Our skilled attorneys have more than 20 years of experience, and they are dedicated to helping you receive the kind of compensation you and your family deserve. Call us today for a free consultation.
