Mercedes Benz Recalls 48,000 SUV Models for Faulty Airbag Sensors
Mercedes Benz Recalls 48,000 SUV Models for Faulty Airbag Sensors
Mercedes-Benz USA has recalled some of its 2016 and 2017 SUVs due to a sensor problem that could prevent the passenger-side airbag from deploying in the event of a crash. According to news reports, this recalls affects nearly 48,000 vehicles, which include several Mercedes GL, GLE and GLS SUV models. Documents submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) state that the front passenger Occupant Classification System calibration might be inaccurate.
Failure to Deploy
As a result, the system can incorrectly classify the occupant as a child, deactivating the front passenger-side airbag. It is not clear if these defects have resulted in any injuries or fatalities. Mercedes will notify owners, update the sensor software at no cost to consumers when the recall begins this month. Last year, Mercedes recalled nearly a million vehicles that were equipped with defective Takata airbags. However, this recall is not connected to Takata airbags that pose a serious danger to vehicle occupants by spraying shrapnel when the airbags deploy.
When airbags fail to deploy after a crash, the resulting injuries can be devastating. We count on airbags to provide us with that extra layer of protection in the event of a crash. When that doesn’t happen, vehicle occupants face a heightened risk of suffering serious, traumatic injuries such as head trauma, spinal cord damage, lacerations and internal injuries.
Auto Product Liability Issues
If you are uncertain whether your vehicle is involved in this recall, you can find out by visiting NHTSA’s safercar.gov website and entering your vehicle identification number or VIN. If you have determined that your vehicle is on the list, take it to a dealer right away to perform the repairs. The worst thing you can do is to ignore a safety recall.
If you or a loved one has been injured as the result of a defective auto, you may be able to file a product liability claim against the automaker and/or the manufacturer of the defective part. Injured victims can seek compensation for damages including medical expenses, lost wages, hospitalization, rehabilitation, pain and suffering and emotional distress.
Families of deceased victims can also file a wrongful death claim seeking compensation for their terrible loss. An experienced auto defect lawyer will be able to do what is necessary to bring negligent automakers to justice and help ensure that victims and their families receive maximum compensation for their losses.
