BMW Recalls SUVs for Defective Child Safety Anchors
BMW Recalls SUVs for Defective Child Safety Anchors
BMW has issued a vehicle defect recall for 622,000 SUVs, about 188,670 in the U.S., for defective child safety seat anchors that could break and potentially cause serious injuries to child passengers in the event of a crash. According to a report on Consumer Reports, the recall, the defective part in question is called a LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children).
Safety experts with Consumer Reports advise parents not to take any risks. They recommend that parents with these vehicles should stop using the LATCH restraints and secure their child seats using the safety belts in the vehicle. The best way to do this is to follow the instructions that came with the child seat and use the belts to secure the child seat until the recall and repairs are completed.
More Information about the Recall
This recall involves X3s manufactured between July 2010 and April 15, 2016, and X4s built between April 2014 and April 15, 2016. BMW says the lower anchor bars could become damaged over time. When the recall begins dealers with secure the bars by reinforcing the bracket, which will be welded to the lower anchor bars and the vehicle body. According to documents filed with the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the rigid-type connectors put excessive stress on the vehicle’s lower anchor bars over time.
Other factors that could affect the stress on the anchors include the type of restraint system, the size and weight of the child and the frequency at which the anchors are used. Sometimes, the extent to which the vehicle is driven, or roadway conditions could also play a part in the level of stress on the anchors. So far BMW says it does not know of any injuries or deaths involving this recall. Vehicle owners can expect to get a letter in July advising them of the recall and instructions to contact dealers regarding repairs.
If Your Child Has Been Injured
If your child has suffered injuries in a crash as a result of these or other defective vehicle parts, it is important that you understand your legal rights and options. Injured victims in such cases can seek compensation from the automaker by filing a product liability lawsuit. Compensation may be available for damages such as medical expenses, lost income, hospitalization, rehabilitation, pain and suffering and emotional distress.
It would be in your best interest to contact an auto defect law firm that has significant experience and the resources to conduct independent investigations necessary to prove your case and help you secure the compensation you rightfully deserve.
