The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
has announced the recall of 495,470 Toyota Motor North America, Inc. vehicles
due to a driver’s side airbag defect. This recall affects model years 2005-2009
Tacoma vehicles manufactured from September 14, 2004 through August 29, 2008.
The Defect
The clockspring assembly, which powers the driver’s side airbag
module, may become damaged over time by steering wheel vibration. If it becomes
damaged, the airbag warning light will illuminate and the airbag may become deactivated.
This could result in the airbag’s failure to deploy in an accident, increasing
the risk of serious injury to the driver.
Airbags are important safety features, but when they do not
function properly they can pose significant risks to vehicle occupants. In most
cases of defective airbags, malfunctions cause the airbag to either deploy
inadvertently, which can cause injury on its own, or not at all.
Remedy
The recall is expected to begin in April 2012. Toyota will
notify Tacoma owners and dealers will replace the defective clockspring
assembly for free. For additional information, owners can contact Toyota at
(800) 331-4331.
Holding Negligent
Auto Manufacturers Liable
It is an auto manufacturer’s responsibility to ensure that
the vehicles they produce are safe and in proper working order. If their
negligent manufacturing or poor design causes a hazardous defect, then they may
be held liable for any injuries that result.
If you have been injured by a defective car or car
component, the experienced Boston auto product liability lawyers with the Kiley Law Group can help you understand
your legal rights and options. Contact us today at (888) 208-1695 for a free
legal consultation.
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