En Español
Already part of the largest automotive recall in history, the recall on Takata airbags are expected to grow even larger. Responsible for 15 deaths in the United States alone, the airbags can deploy with enough force to send shrapnel flying through the cars, injuring people and claiming lives. Takata filed for bankruptcy protection in Japan and the United States as mounting settlement and recall costs forced the company out of business. WRAL reports on the story, including that there are more vehicles expected to be added to the recall.
Nearly 50 million airbags have already been recalled, making the Takata airbag recall the largest in United States automotive history. It isn’t finished yet. Another 20 million more recalls are expected.
Takata airbags were installed in the cars, trucks, and SUVs manufactured by 19 different automakers.
More than 26 million vehicles are still awaiting replacement of their airbags. The airbags contain a chemical which can degrade, specifically in hot, humid climates. This puts vehicles in places like Texas, Louisiana, Florida, Puerto Rico, and parts of California specifically at risk.
David Friedman, who was the administrator of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration when the airbag recalls broke, believes that automakers need to do more to make owners aware of the deadly threat the airbags pose.
At the end of the day, however, it is up to the owners to take the responsibility of getting their vehicles to the dealers to get their airbags replaced.
Ford and Mazda have taken steps to warn owners to stop driving their 2006 model Ford Ranger and Mazda B-series pickup trucks and have them immediately towed to the dealership for airbag replacement.
Have you been injured in an accident? We can help. Contact us today.
