Safety Defects in Cars Cost Lives

When we drive our cars every day, we take for granted that our car will respond to our commands and transport us safely from place to place. The Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards set requirements in place that ensure a vehicle’s parts, that mainly affect the operation of a vehicle, are safe, such as the brakes, tires, and safety belts. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) administers the program. It maintains a database of all complaints made regarding vehicle safety hazards to track trends and identify issues.

The NHTSA requires manufacturers to recall vehicles that fail to meet standards and considers petitions to investigate potential violations of safety standards. Since the program started, millions of vehicles, tires, vehicle parts, and child safety seats have been removed from service or have been repaired, so that we can continue to feel confident our vehicles are safe to drive.

Vehicle Recalls

All manufacturers are required to report safety-related defects to the NHTSA. The NHTSA uses a recall process to address safety concerns. If the defect is serious enough, the manufacturer must recall the vehicles and remedy the problem at their expense. A recall can be voluntarily initiated by a manufacturer, made at the request of or required by the NHTSA. The NHTSA monitors the recall to make sure it results in a successful campaign to remedy the situation.

Kia and Hyundai Fires

Recently, the Center for Auto Safety became aware of an unusual number of car fires in four car models built between 2011 and 2014, consisting of the Kia Optima sedan and Sorento SUV, and the Hyundai Sonata sedan and Santa Fe SUV. They have petitioned the NHTSA to initiate an investigation and recall. A review of the database showed 120 complaints of car fires unrelated to accidents and other complaints of melted wires, burnt odors, and smoke.

Both companies vowed to work closely with the NHTSA to investigate and correct any safety violations. If your car is found to have a safety defect because of an investigation into these complaints, you will be advised by the manufacturer of the status and next steps. Repairs, if found necessary, will be at the manufacturers expense.

Camden Car Accident Lawyers at DiTomaso Law Advocate for Victims of Car Defects

If you have been involved in a car accident involving a safety recall or design defect, you may be entitled to damages. Our experienced Camden car accident lawyers at DiTomaso Law can advise you on to how to proceed to best protect your interests. Contact our office at 856-414-0010 or fill out our online form to schedule an initial consultation. With office locations in Philadelphia and Cherry Hill, New Jersey, we proudly serve clients from the surrounding areas.