More than 128,000 Kia Soul hatchbacks from the 2014 model year are being recalled over faulty airbags. According to Consumer Reports, the front airbags in these vehicles may not deploy in the event of a crash. If this occurs, vehicle occupants may not be properly protected. The automaker started an investigation into the issue following a 2019 lawsuit, which alleged that the front airbags of a 2014 Kia Soul did not deploy during a crash.
Kia Souls Recalled for Faulty Airbags
After two years of investigation, Kia told the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) that the problem occurs when both the vehicle’s left and right airbag sensors lose communication during the early phases of a crash. Kia dealers will update the faulty airbag control unit (ACU) software in the recalled vehicles so the airbags will deploy even when communication is lost. So far, one crash and one injury have been reported related to this recall. The recall consists of 2014 Kia Soul hatchbacks manufactured between July 21, 2013, and June 20, 2014. Kia will begin contacting vehicle owners via mail on April 15. If you are wondering whether your vehicle is included in this recall, one way to check is by going to NHTSA’s website and entering your 17-digit vehicle identification number (VIN). Kia’s own number for this recall is SC229.The Danger of Airbag Defects
Faulty airbags can result in serious or even life-threatening injuries. When airbags fail to deploy properly during a crash, occupants are left unprotected. This could result in traumatic injuries, including brain injury, spinal cord damage, multiple broken bones, and internal organ trauma. If you have been injured due to a defective product, such as these faulty airbags, you may be able to receive compensation for damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, hospitalization, rehabilitation, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. It would be in victims’ best interests to retain the services of an experienced auto defect law firm that has a stellar track record of holding negligent automakers accountable and helping the injured secure maximum compensation for their losses. If you suspect that you were injured due to the failure of safety devices such as airbags, it is crucial to preserve the vehicle in its current condition unaltered so it can be examined thoroughly by experts for evidence of defects and malfunctions. An experienced auto defect lawyer may be able to provide more information regarding your legal rights and options. Source: https://www.consumerreports.org/car-recalls-defects/kia-soul-recalled-for-faulty-airbags-a3937756836/
Scott Ritsema
Scott Ritsema is a California personal injury attorney with over 3 decades of experience representing injured plaintiffs throughout Southern California. A top-rated trial lawyer, Scott is also a partner at the law firm of Bisnar Chase Personal Injury Attorneys, LLP and has helped secure millions in verdicts & settlements. Scott has successfully taken on hundreds of cases and has had much success in and out of California courtrooms.
