Toyota is recalling approximately 191,000 Corolla and Matrix cars to replace defective Takata airbags with potentially damaged ones. According to a USA Today news report, the Japanese automaker announced it would recall certain 2003 through 2008 model-year Corolla cars and 2005 through 2008 model-year Matrix cars. This recall involved about 135,000 vehicles in the United States that had already had their faulty Takata airbags replaced.
Problem with the Replacement Airbags
The issue with these recalled vehicles is that their front-passenger-seat replacement airbags may not perform correctly. Toyota said in a statement that if one of these airbags deploys, it could potentially sustain damage. This type of damage could cause the airbag to not properly inflate, thereby increasing the risk of injury to vehicle occupants in the event of a crash. Toyota declined to comment on whether injuries or deaths have been linked to this auto defect.
Automakers have spent the last several years gradually replacing defective Takata airbags, which are prone to explode with significant force when deployed, sending shards of metal flying into the cabin. These faulty airbags have been blamed for at least 24 deaths. However, this latest recall from Toyota raises concerns that the replacement bags might not be safe either. Toyota says dealers will replace the airbag assemblies with improved versions at no cost to owners. Beginning in October, the company will send out notifications to owners via mail.
Auto Product Liability Issues
Defective Takata airbags led to the largest auto defect recall in U.S. history. Over the years, the problem with these airbags has caused 28 deaths and several catastrophic and severe injuries to drivers and passengers. It is concerning that replacement airbags can also be faulty, potentially failing to protect occupants during a crash. We count on airbags to keep us safe when a crash occurs. Airbags offer an extra layer of protection, safeguarding us from blunt-force trauma and other severe injuries that could occur in a violent crash.
If you or a loved one has been harmed by these or other defective vehicles, you may be able to seek compensation. Injured victims can seek compensation for medical expenses, lost income, hospitalization, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. Families of deceased victims may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit seeking compensation as well. An experienced Los Angeles auto defect lawyer can provide victims and their families more information about pursuing their legal rights.
Source: https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/cars/2019/08/28/toyota-corolla-matrix-airbag-recall/2139192001/
