More than 67 million airbags made by Japanese airbag manufacturer Takata have been recalled since 2014, according to news reports on the issue. The defective airbags have killed and injured thousands all around the world over the years. Although the company filed for bankruptcy in 2017, the recalls keep happening even now.
Vehicle Recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recently ordered American car manufacturer Ford to recall driver’s-side airbags because the defective inflators have a tendency to explode. When they do explode, the inflators shoot shrapnel into the vehicle. This adds another 3 million Takata airbags to the growing list of recalls across vehicle makes and models. News reports say that at least 18 people have died in the United States in Takata airbag-related accidents and more than 400 individuals have been seriously injured. Although Ford initially objected to the forced recall ordered by NHTSA, claiming there was insufficient evidence to support it, NHTSA noted the ammonium nitrate propellant used in the Takata airbags showed signs of decay.
Multiple models of Ford’s vehicles are part of the recall. These include:
- Ford Ranger, 2007-2011
- Ford Edge, 2007-2010
- Lincoln MKZ/Zephyr, 2006-2012
- Lincoln MKX, 2007-2010
- Mercury Milan, 200-2007
But Ford is not the only manufacturer recalling its vehicles. Mazda, which used to be owned by Ford, expects to recall its B-Series small pickup trucks manufactured from 2007 to 2009.
Defective Airbag Injuries
There are many types of injuries that may result from defective airbag accidents. The most common injuries reported include:
- Burns;
- Abrasions;
- Scarring;
- Contusions;
- Sprains;
- Fractures; and
- Broken bones.
Vehicle airbags were designed to protect — not hurt — drivers and passengers in cars in
the event of a collision. Consumers have a right to expect that products purchased are free from manufacturing, design, and labeling defects. When a company puts a product into commerce that falls short and harms a consumer, the injured victim has the legal right to pursue monetary compensation for harm suffered. These suits fall under Nevada product liability law.
Notably, a proper airbag deployment can still cause serious or fatal injuries if the occupant in the front seat is too close to the airbag — the NHTSA recommends at least 10 inches — when it deploys.
Defective Airbag Damages
Because product liability claims involve harmed plaintiffs going up against large corporations, defective product cases can be challenging. Every year a significant number of people are hurt due to faulty and defective products. These not only include vehicles but can also involve household appliances, heavy equipment, toys, over the counter and prescription drugs, as well as power tools. Damages include lost past and future wages, medical expenses, rehabilitation, as well as pain and suffering.
Attorneys Available
If you have been involved in a Nevada accident due to a defective product, the experienced personal injury lawyers at H&P Law can help you. Possible defendants include the manufacturer, retailer, and advertiser of the defective product. Contact our Las Vegas or Henderson office today to schedule your initial case evaluation.
