Cars have constantly been evolving since they were first invented. Now many of them contain complex safety features and improved technology. However, car manufacturing and design are not foolproof. Despite rigorous testing, some cars and trucks are mass-produced and released on the market with dangerous defects. When these defects are discovered, the manufacturers have a duty to recall them so that the defects can be repaired and won’t cause harm. Thousands of vehicles are recalled every year. Here are some recent vehicle recalls that have been in the news:
Hyundai Recall
Hyundai recalled 130,000 vehicles for faulty engine-connecting rod bearings that may wear prematurely and lead to engine failure. Hyundai recently agreed to pay a civil penalty for failing to recall vehicles with faulty rod bearings sooner. The recalled vehicles will be repaired.
Kia Recall
In December of 2020, Kia recalled 295,000 vehicles because of a risk of an engine fire. The recall came just a week after the company had been fined for failing to issue a recall sooner. The recall came after the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) began investigating engine fires in Kias and Hyundais. The agency said it had complaints of more than 3,100 fires with 103 injuries and one death.
General Motors Recall
G.M. recalled 7 million pickups and SUVs worldwide due to defective airbags that have been linked to at least 17 deaths in the United States. The NHTSA ordered a recall in November of 2020 despite G.M.’s argument that the airbags didn’t need to be replaced. The recall centers on airbags made by Takata that have been known to explode, spraying shrapnel throughout the vehicle. In addition to the deaths, other motorists have been blinded or maimed.
Ford Recall
In November of 2020, Ford recalled 27,000 vehicles, including its 2020 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator. The vehicles were recalled to replace a part that could lead to the stalling of a vehicle while it was running. The defective link shaft bracket could also lead to a malfunctioning of the park mechanism leading the vehicle to move on its own. No accidents have yet been reported.
Contact an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney
If you’ve been injured by a defective vehicle, you should have an experienced personal injury attorney evaluate your case. At Bonina & Bonina, P.C., we have been helping the victims of defective products for over 50 years. Contact us online or call us at 1-888-MEDLAW1 to schedule your free consultation. Home and hospital visits are available. Se habla español.