What To Do If Your Auto Is Recalled
Brian O Sutter
Recalls
No one wants to receive that dreaded letter in the mail telling them that their car or truck is being recalled for a safety-related defect. From the Ford F-150 to the Honda Accord, vehicles of any make and model can be subject to a recall at some point during ownership. Most people are alarmed when they receive the recall letter, but keeping cool and following the proper steps is essential to getting a vehicle repaired and back on the road safely. Read Through The Recall Letter
Recall letters are sent out to vehicle owners when a manufacturer, or the NHTSA, finds that a vehicle does not comply with a federal safety standard. They can also be sent out when a safety-related defect is found on a specific make and model. Receiving a recall letter is no cause to panic; simply read through and follow the instructions.
The letter is very detailed and will explain:
• The reason for the recall and a description of the defective part
• Hazard risks including the type of injuries the defect can cause
• Warning signs that could indicate a problem
• How the problem will be fixed by the manufacturer
• Instructions on the next steps to take
The next-step instructions will often advise that the vehicle be taken to a local dealership for repairs. Though auto manufacturers do their best to get letters out to all owners of defective vehicles, circumstances might prevent receipt of the letter. In that case, recall information can be found at the NHTSA recall website.
Always Prioritize Repairs
When a vehicle is recalled for a defect, getting it repaired should be a top priority; yet some people neglect to do so. After all, not every single recalled vehicle will have the defect and many believe that there will be warning signs before trouble starts. Though it’s true that a safety recall does not mean that there is imminent danger, many defects can cause major injuries and even fatalities without warning. When a recall repair is free, it makes sense to have the vehicle taken care of as soon as possible to ensure safety for all.
Know The Truth About Hidden Dangers
There are times when auto manufacturers are aware of certain safety defects, but continue with production despite the potential risks. There are some companies that believe the cost of a few lawsuits will be less than the cost of redesigning a vehicle to be safer. They continue to manufacture vehicles that are defective with the hopes that they won’t be caught. Sometimes this works, but many times, it does not. There have been several cases when life-changing injuries, and even death, have occurred as the result of a defect the manufacturer knew about, but kept hidden.
Be Aware Of Potential Defects
Being aware of recalls is one thing, but being aware of issues that can happen before a recall is issued is just as important. Some of the most common vehicle defects that vehicle owners should be aware of include:
• Elements in the steering that can cause a loss of control
• Components in the fuel system that can leak or cause fire
• Faulty windshield wipers that do not operate correctly
• Unexpected airbag deployment
• Wiring systems that can catch fire
• Components on child safety seats that can cause injury
• Accelerator controls that break or stick
Auto manufacturers can receive large fines when they withhold important information about known potential safety defects, such as the $1.2 billion dollar fine handed to Toyota for failing to correct a design defect in the gas pedal that caused unintended and uncontrollable acceleration.
Understand Your Rights
If you or anyone you love has been seriously injured as a result of a defective auto, you might be able to seek compensation from the manufacturer. If they knew about the defect, but failed to act on it in a timely manner, or even if a recall was issued, you could have a claim. As with any type of auto accident, having an experienced accident lawyer on your side who knows the laws can help you get the settlement you deserve.