Ford Recalls 850,000 Vehicles For Airbag Issues
Ford Recalls 850,000 Vehicles For Airbag Issues
Ford Motor Company is issuing a defective auto recall for 850,000 vehicles because an electrical glitch could prevent the airbags from deploying in a crash.
According to a Detroit News report, the automaker announced the recall involving some 2013-14 Ford C-MAX, Fusion, Escape and Lincoln MKZ vehicles for an issue with the restraints control module.
Defects Involve Airbags and Seatbelts
The recall includes 745,000 vehicles in the United States, 82,000 in Canada and 20,000 in Mexico. The problem with these vehicles is that the module may experience a short circuit. When this happens, the airbag warning indicator will light up.
Depending on the location of the short circuit, the deployable restraint systems such as the airbags, pretensioners and side curtains may not work as intended in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury or death.
A short circuit may also have an impact on the functioning of other systems that use data from the restraints control module including stability control. Ford said it does not know about any car accidents or injuries related to these defects. When the recall begins, dealers will replace the restraints control module.
Automakers, just in 2014, have recalled millions of vehicles due to airbag failure. This year alone, automakers have recalled more than 45 million vehicles, breaking an all-time high record of 30.8 million vehicles set in 2004.
Potential Breakdown in Safety
Airbags and seatbelts are two safety components we have come to depend on the most when it comes to protection during accidents. Seatbelts hold us in place when there is a collision and airbags help cushion vehicle occupants and protect them from further traumatic injuries.
However, when these devices fail to function as intended in the event of a crash, the consequences can be devastating. Some of the catastrophic injuries these defects could cause include traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord trauma, internal injuries and broken bones.
Auto Product Liability Issues
If you have been injured in a car accident as a result of auto defects, it is important that you preserve the vehicle in its current condition unaltered. This way, an expert can examine it thoroughly for flaws, malfunction and problems with design.
An experienced auto product liability lawyer will be able to stay on top of the investigation and help ensure that you are fairly and fully compensated for your losses while holding the negligent automakers accountable.
