Regular visitors to our blog appreciate that we address a wide array of issues, including injuries due to faulty air bags. Concerns over faulty Takata air bags have been noted as far back as 2015.
These concerns have grown each year to the point where the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) says about 70 million units are under recall around the world. This affects nearly two dozen vehicle brands. And just this week, Ford announced it is recalling nearly 1 million more vehicles.
Notification to start Feb. 18
The issue, as in previous renditions of this recall, is that Takata airbag inflators can explode and spew shards of metal into the passenger compartment. The devices affected use ammonium nitrate as the inflation propellant. Experts now know that the compound can degrade in hot, humid conditions to the point of instability. Considering Florida’s climate, concern obviously runs high in our state for instances of faulty air bags and the serious injuries they can cause.
The latest records from NHTSA confirm 15 deaths in the U.S. because of these faulty air bags. Millions remain under recall, but unfortunately replacement devices are in short supply.
Ford says it has no reports of anyone being injured in vehicles affected by this recall. A spokesperson also says replacement parts are available and that notifications to consumers will begin next month. If you receive a notification, schedule your repair with a dealer as soon as possible.
Of the nearly 1 million Ford vehicles under recall globally, more than 780,000 are in the U.S. It is always a good practice to check with your dealer to see if your vehicle is affected by this newest recall, or any other recalls.
If you need legal advice concerning a motor vehicle accident, or injuries caused by a faulty air bag, contact knowledgeable attorneys to discuss your rights today.