Last year, Takata Corporation made headlines after it was discovered that airbags manufactured by the Japanese auto parts maker contained a serious defect. The defect – which can cause airbags to rupture and send shrapnel flying at drivers and passengers – has been linked to numerous injuries and several deaths.
Here are a few key points about the defect and lawsuits:
- Auto manufacturers have recalled millions of U.S. vehicles due to defective Takata airbags and have publicly linked the defective airbags to auto accidents resulting in injury and death. Although most recalls were issued in 2014, Nissan expanded its recall to include 2004 and 2006 Sentra sedans earlier this week.
- In October 2014, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) issued a consumer advisory urging vehicle owners with recalled vehicles to take immediate action and have their vehicles serviced.
- Federal safety officials have noted that the defective airbags are prone to problems with high humidity. As such, regional recalls have also been issued in Florida, Texas, states along the gulf coast, and other tropical U.S. territories.
- Victims and families across the country who were injured by the defective airbags have begun filing lawsuits against Takata Corporation and several automakers. These lawsuits include personal injury and wrongful death product liability claims.
If you have concerns about whether your vehicle may be affected by the Takata airbag recall, we encourage you to visit your auto maker’s website or use the NHTSA VIN search tool to check for any outstanding recalls.
Kelley/Uustal is currently reviewing cases from victims who were injured by defective Takata airbags – as well as families who have lost loved ones in fatal incidents. For more information or to discuss your case during a FREE consultation, contact our firm today.
