The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration performed some tests in July on the Takata airbags that have been recalled. Their findings concluded that the airbags exploded. Humid weather and impact have been linked to causing the airbags to explode. It has been confirmed by Takata themselves that a semi exploded, in a town of Texas, that was hauling the Takata airbag inflators and a volatile chemical, was responsible for killing one and injuring four. A woman’s house was demolished, cars were impacted, and there was not much left of the semi. The pictures of the damage were a visual shock.
Researchers say that if there is a recall out there for your vehicles airbags, do not wait to replace them. Many of the Takata airbags are in Honda and Acura model vehicles, and our government has made statements encouraging anyone driving one stop. If a crash occurs and the vehicle has a Takata inflator, there is a 50% chance that it will explode according to data from The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
As of June 2016 11 deaths and more than 100 injuries have been linked to this inflator. The impact of a crash causes the metal canister to blow apart sending the shrapnel into the drivers and passengers. The vehicles with these inflators are Honda and Acura that range in the model years 2001-2003.
If there are inherent flaws in a product and when a consumer becomes a victim, the manufacturer can be held legally liable. It is a manufacturer’s responsibility to ensure that their product is free from defects or flaws that could injure or even kill a consumer. Being a father-son owned law firm we understand the importance of loved ones. Meyerkord & Kurth will investigate to determine if a manufacturer is responsible for you or someone you know injured by the negligence of a manufacturer they are held accountable. Contacting us is the first step and don’t worry your first initial consult is free.