750,000 Car Owners Affected by NHTSA Investigation – Are you one of them?
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is responsible for monitoring the safety of vehicles in the country. It issues recalls of thousands of dangerous vehicles in the United States each year. In fact, the NHTSA recently announced its investigation into 750,000 vehicles. If you’re the owner of a vehicle, it’s important to stay up-to-date on recall information.
Reason for the NHTSA Investigation
In July 2014, the NHTSA launched an investigation into 750,000 vehicles manufactured by three different companies. The investigations were launched as a result of numerous complaints from vehicle owners.
The vehicles investigated include the following.
- 2008 Chevy Impala.
- 2011-2012 Dodge Charger.
- and, the 2006-2008 Hyundai Sonata.
Each investigation is unrelated, and each car’s cause for investigation is different. The Impalas are being investigated because of a suspected defect in the software, leading to defective airbags in the event of a crash.
The Chargers are being investigated for stalling while the vehicle is in motion. The Sonatas are being investigated for problems with the electrical circuit, which could affect both seatbelts and airbags in the event of a crash.
While the cars have not yet been officially recalled, an investigation by the NHTSA is the first step in the recall process. If the vehicles prove to be as dangerous as the complaints would appear, then a total recall of the vehicles may take place.
How to Find Out If Your Vehicle Has Been Recalled
If you are the owner of one of the models listed above, keep an eye out for any recall announcements. The manufacturer should send you a letter informing you of the recall and providing instructions to get the problem remedied. If you are not an owner of one of the car makes and models that’s currently being investigated, it is still within your best interest to consistently monitor car model investigations, complaints, and recalls.
Recalls.gov and SaferCar.gov, two services of the NHTSA and Department of Transportation, are great resources in finding out information about vehicle recalls. Using these websites, a person can search for recalled vehicles, child safety restraints, tires, and more. You can also view the latest recalls announced by manufacturers on the NHTSA Recalls & Defects page.
If Your Vehicle Has Been Recalled
Upon receiving a vehicle recall letter from the manufacturer, you will have a certain amount of time to get your vehicle fixed. The cost of the repairs will be free to you, and you should take your car to an authorized auto body shop for repairs.
If you receive a recall notice and do not take action, you are increasing the risk of endangering yourself and others. If you have a defective or dangerous vehicle, it is important that you get it repaired immediately.
How an Attorney Can Help
Sometimes, despite dangerous vehicles being investigated or recalled, accidents involving recalled vehicles still happen. If you’ve been in an accident that was caused by a vehicle defect that was beyond your control, and if that accident led to serious injury, then the vehicle manufacturer may be liable for your damages.
Defective product and personal injury law is confusing, and seeking the assistance of a legal professional is within your best interest. The attorneys at Rob Levine & Associates can guide you through your case, and will strive to get you the compensation to which you are entitled. For a free case consultation, call our offices today at 800-LAW-1222 (529-1222).
