Along with more than 100 injuries, another death because of a defective Takata airbag marks the 8th U.S. fatality and the 9th death worldwide, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
This last victim was a teenager who was a passenger in relative’s 2001 Honda Accord when a car accident occurred near Pittsburgh in July. The unidentified teen was hospitalized and died a few days later.
Previously, the NHTSA attributed seven U.S. deaths on faulty Takata airbags. All deaths occurred in Honda vehicles.
The Honda Accord coupe owner did not take the coupe for repairs after receiving a recall notice in 2010, according to a Honda representative. The day prior to the fatal accident, another recall notice was mailed. If you or a family member has been injured by a Takata airbag contact one of our reputable South Bend product liability lawyers for a free consultation.
Disturbing Takata Airbag Scandal
Takata, a Japanese manufacturer, is one of the largest suppliers of airbags to the auto industry.
The defective airbags used ammonium nitrate inflators that may rupture and shoot metal shrapnel, potentially injuring or even killing vehicle occupants. High heat and humidity make them more likely to rupture.
The company agreed to pay a fine of $70 million issued by the NHTSA in November related to safety violations. They could pay up to $200 million in deferred penalties, and will also phase out ammonium nitrate filters.
Takata Consumer Recall Information
The defective Takata airbags triggered a massive recall of more than 19 vehicles. The NHTSA will likely expand its recall list to include another 300,000 vehicles, including 2002-2004 Honda CR-Vs, 2005-2008 Mazda6s and 2005-2008 Subaru Legacy and Outbacks.
Around 27 percent of American vehicle owners have finished the Takata recall repair. In humid areas, 34 percent have brought their vehicles in for the airbag repair.
If you have been injured by a defective product like a Takata airbag, contact a South Bend personal injury lawyer at the law office of Pfeifer, Morgan & Stesiak today. We will work to get you the justice you deserve.
Call (574) 444-0741 today for a free consultation.
