Millions of people are driving around in vehicles with potentially deadly Takata airbags, despite a massive recall that began a decade ago.
Exploding Takata Airbags Tied to 20 Fatalities
Tragically, exploding Takata airbags have killed at least 20 people worldwide, including 15 in the United States alone. More than 100 others have been injured.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Takata used a chemical called ammonium nitrate to create a small explosion and deploy the airbags quickly in the event of a crash. However, the deterioration of the chemical has caused the airbags’ inflators to rupture and shoot hot shrapnel towards a vehicle’s occupants.
Takata Airbag Recall is the Largest Automotive Recall in U.S. History
The Takata airbag recall began in 2008 and has since ensnared 19 automakers. It currently holds the record as the largest automotive recall in U.S. history.
Yet according to Consumer Reports, only about half of the deadly airbags have been replaced.
It’s vital that owners check the NHTSA website to find out whether their vehicle is included in the Takata airbag recall. And because the number of affected vehicles continues to grow, it’s important to check back frequently.
“Look for your VIN number on the lower left hand side of your windshield, or on your door jamb – and plug it into NHTSA’s website and it’ll let you know if your vehicle is on the list,” said Jen Stockburger, director of operations at Consumer Reports Auto Test Center.
If your vehicle is on the list, contact your dealer as soon as possible to have your airbags replaced.
Are Automakers Doing Enough to Replace Defective Takata Airbags?
Unfortunately, some automakers appear to have fallen short when it comes to replacing recalled Takata airbags.
According to a U.S. Senate Report released last month, only 6 of the affected automakers have adequate loaner car policies for customers that are waiting for parts to become available. The remaining are “putting their customers at risk of death or horrific injuries.”
The report, which was commissioned by senior Democrats on the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, estimated that as many as 42 million cars, trucks and SUVs in the United States could have defective Takata airbags.
Contact Our Undefeated Airbag Recall Lawyers for a Free Legal Consultation at 1-888-603-3636 or by Clicking Here.
Our Undefeated Airbag Recall Lawyers continue to investigate and monitor the Takata airbag recall and will post additional updates as more information becomes available.
With more than $1 billion recovered for our clients, including hundreds of people injured or tragically killed due to defective vehicles and vehicle components, our firm has the resources and experience to ensure that you and your family receive the maximum compensation possible for all of your injuries and losses.
If you or someone you love were injured or tragically killed in connection with the Takata airbag recall, please call 1-888-603-3636 or Click Here to send us a confidential email via our “Contact Us” form.
All consultations are free, and since we only represent clients on a contingency fee basis, you’ll pay nothing unless we win your case.