The Takata airbag crisis has become one of the most significant automotive recalls in history. Millions of vehicles worldwide were equipped with airbags that, instead of protecting drivers and passengers, posed a dangerous threat to their safety. If you or a loved one have been affected by defective Takata airbags, you may be entitled to compensation.
In this article, we’ll cover the essential details of the Takata airbag scandal, how these airbags became a safety hazard, and what steps you can take if you’ve been injured.
What Are Takata Airbags?
Takata Corporation, a Japanese automotive parts manufacturer, produced airbags for many popular car brands. These airbags were designed to deploy in the event of a crash, cushioning passengers from impact and reducing the risk of injury. However, many Takata airbags were defective and did not function as intended.
How Did Takata Airbags Become Defective?
The main issue with Takata airbags lies in the chemical compound used to inflate the airbags. The airbags relied on a propellant called ammonium nitrate, which, under normal circumstances, rapidly expands and inflates the airbag. However, when exposed to heat and humidity over time, the chemical can become unstable, causing the airbag to explode with too much force.
Instead of deploying smoothly, defective Takata airbags could rupture, sending metal fragments into the vehicle’s cabin. This turned what should have been a life-saving device into a deadly threat, leading to severe injuries and, in some cases, fatalities.
The Scale of the Recall
Once the defect was discovered, the recall was massive. The Takata airbag recall began in the early 2010s and continues to affect millions of vehicles across dozens of brands, including Honda, BMW, Toyota, Ford, and many more. It has been estimated that over 67 million airbags were recalled in the United States alone, with millions more recalled worldwide.
Car manufacturers have been working to replace defective Takata airbags, but the sheer scale of the recall has made it a long and ongoing process. If your vehicle is part of the recall and hasn’t had its airbag replaced yet, it’s crucial to act immediately.
The Dangers of Defective Takata Airbags
The dangers posed by defective Takata airbags are significant. When the airbag’s inflator explodes, it can send sharp metal shrapnel flying through the cabin at high speeds, causing catastrophic injuries to the driver or passengers. These injuries include:
- Lacerations and puncture wounds
- Facial injuries and eye damage
- Hearing loss
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Fatalities in severe cases
The most tragic part of this crisis is that the device meant to protect you during an accident could be the very cause of harm. If you’ve been injured by a defective Takata airbag, you may be entitled to compensation through the Takata Airbag Settlement.
Who Is Liable for the Takata Airbag Defects?
Multiple parties could be held responsible for the Takata airbag defects, including the manufacturers who installed these airbags in their vehicles. Takata Corporation has taken the brunt of the blame and has faced numerous lawsuits. However, some car manufacturers may also be held accountable if they were aware of the defect and did not act quickly to resolve the issue.
How a Takata Airbag Lawyer Can Help
If you or a loved one have suffered an injury caused by a defective Takata airbag, you don’t have to navigate this complex legal battle alone. A Takata airbag lawyer can ensure that you receive the maximum compensation possible from the Takata Airbag Settlement. These attorneys are experienced in handling cases involving product liability and personal injury, and they can guide you through the process of filing a claim.
Compensation may cover:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Wrongful death (in the case of a loved one’s death)
What You Should Do If Your Vehicle Has a Defective Airbag
If you suspect that your vehicle may have a defective Takata airbag, it’s essential to act quickly. Here are the steps you should take:
- Check if your car is part of the recall: Use your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to check whether your car is affected by the Takata airbag recall. Most major car manufacturers provide online tools to do this.
- Schedule a repair: If your car is part of the recall, contact your dealership immediately to schedule a free repair or airbag replacement. This could save your life or prevent serious injury.
- Consult with a lawyer if you’ve been injured: If you’ve already suffered an injury from a defective Takata airbag, it’s crucial to contact a Takata airbag lawyer to discuss your legal options.
Conclusion
The Takata airbag crisis has left a long-lasting impact on the automotive industry and the lives of countless individuals. Defective Takata airbags have turned a life-saving safety feature into a source of potential harm. If you or someone you know has been injured by one of these airbags, don’t hesitate to seek legal help. A dedicated Takata airbag lawyer can fight for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve.
For more information or to take action, visit Class Action Lawyer to learn more about the Takata airbag recall and how a lawyer can assist you.