AIR BAG RECALL
By: Steven S. Farbman

The government has recently recalled more than 2 million Toyota, Chrysler and Honda vehicles because of a second fix needed for air bags that may inadvertently inflate while the car is running. The recall includes some Acura MDX, Dodge Viper, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Honda Odyssey, Pontiac Vibe, Toyota Corolla and Toyota Avalon models made from 2002 to 2004. Carmakers had originally tried to fix the defects by partially replacing the electronic control unit, made by TRW Automotive of Livonia, Mich., but that fix didn’t always work. The new remedy – full replacement of the unit – will be available to all affected vehicles by the end of the year. However, the NHTSA is urging consumers with cars under the first recall to have the partial unit installed despite the fix’s failure rate, even if they have to return to the dealer under the second recall. “Even though it’s a temporary solution until the new remedy is available,” NHTSA Administrator Mark Rosekind said, consumers “and their families will be safer if they take the time to learn if their vehicle is covered and follow their manufacturers’ instructions.”

Approximately 39 air bags that had been replaced under the previous recall have deployed inadvertently again. The agency says about 1 million Toyota and Honda vehicles involved in the new recalls are also subject to a separate recall related to defective air bags made by Takata of Japan. Those air bags can deploy and rupture with enough force to cause injury or death. In nine cases, cars had problems that included both the inadvertent deployment and the Takata rupture. Three of those cases resulted in injuries, including eye injuries, scratches and burns. No death or injuries related to non-Takata air bag failures have been reported.

The Law Offices of Steven S. Farbman are always interested in the safety and well-being for the people of our community. As always please feel free to contact my office with any legal questions you may have. For more than 30 years, Steven S. Farbman has been helping members of this community who have been seriously injured due to the carelessness and negligence of others.

Law Offices of Steven S. Farbman, P.A.
Regions Bank Building
450 North Park Road
Penthouse Suite 800
Hollywood, FL 33021
954.923.3603
www.farbmanlaw.com