Auto Recalls: Are you driving a ticking time bomb?

It is imperative to recognize the potential danger of driving a potentially hazardous vehicle without even realizing it, especially if you have purchased a used car with a recall or failed to receive a recall notice from the manufacturer. Despite the fact that a significant number of cars, ranging from 30 to 50 million, have been recalled annually over the past five years, a considerable portion of these vehicles are still being driven on the roads and highways of Texas.

To ensure your safety, as well as the safety of others on the road, it is crucial to stay informed about vehicle recalls and comprehend your rights and responsibilities when it comes to addressing the underlying issues. In the unfortunate event that you or a loved one has suffered an injury due to a recalled or defective vehicle, it is possible that you may be eligible for compensation.

Is my car or truck under recall?

Regardless of whether a recall is initiated voluntarily by the manufacturer or mandated by the government, it is the manufacturer’s responsibility to inform all consumers about any open recalls pertaining to their specific make and model. However, there is a possibility that these notifications may be misdirected or disregarded as junk mail, leading to the original owner of a pre-owned car receiving the recall letter instead of the current owner. Therefore, it is crucial not to assume that your vehicle is exempt from any recall for a faulty component, as manufacturer recall notices can easily go astray in the mail and fail to reach the intended vehicle owner.

Fortunately, there are multiple methods available to verify if there are any open recalls for your particular make and model. To begin, you will require your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), which can be located inside the driver’s side car door where a barcode is visible upon opening it. Additionally, the VIN can be found on the bottom corner of the driver’s side windshield. It is also listed on your vehicle registration form as well as your auto insurance card. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) acknowledges the challenges faced by vehicle owners when a recall is issued for a specific make and model. Consequently, the process has been streamlined to ensure that vehicle owners are promptly informed about safety recalls and can take the necessary actions accordingly.

Click here to see if your vehicle is under recall.

You can also inquire about recalls when you take your car for an oil change or any regular maintenance. A certified dealer has access to the manufacturer’s database and can provide you with details on recalls, service advisories, and software updates that are relevant to your specific vehicle.

What should I do if there is a recall on my vehicle?

In the event of a recall, the recall notice will provide detailed instructions for vehicle owners to rectify the faulty component. This usually entails scheduling a service appointment at an authorized provider. To inquire about the recall, reach out to the nearest licensed dealership for the manufacturer. However, it is crucial to ensure that the dealership has a service department authorized by the manufacturer. Depending on the availability of service providers in your vicinity, you may need to contact multiple establishments to find one that can adequately address the needs of your vehicle.

It is imperative for the manufacturer to provide a clear explanation regarding whether the defect has any implications on the safety of the vehicle. It is strongly advised not to operate your car if the recall presents a potential risk to your health and safety. However, even if the recall allows for continued use of the vehicle, it is crucial to exercise caution and promptly arrange for the car to be serviced. If necessary, you can seek the assistance of a towing service to transport your vehicle to an authorized provider, ensuring that the recall is addressed without jeopardizing your life or the lives of others on the road. In some cases, a rental car may be provided until the issue is fully resolved.

Car seat recalls are just as important as vehicle recalls. In the event that you have already taken your car seat to a repair shop to address the issue before the recall, it is likely that you are entitled to a refund for the service cost. It is crucial to keep all the necessary paperwork when you fix any problems with your vehicle, as you may be eligible for reimbursement at a later time. If the problem with your vehicle or the recalled part cannot be fixed, even after multiple attempts, your car might be considered a lemon. Dealing with Texas lemon law can be complex, and it is possible that you may be without a vehicle for several months while your case is being resolved. However, the Law Office of Brian Brunson can advocate for compensation on your behalf if your car is classified as a lemon.

Can a recall expire before I get my car fixed?

Recalled vehicles must be addressed promptly by the manufacturer, who is required to inform registered owners of the affected make and model within 60 days. The notification should include detailed instructions for resolving the issue, a specific timeframe for the repairs, and contact information for any difficulties encountered during the process. It is important to note that unless your car is 15 years old or older, there should be no charge for rectifying the problem. Even if you purchase a used vehicle and subsequently discover an open recall for that particular make and model, you are still entitled to receive the necessary repair free of charge.

What if a defective auto part caused my accident?

Vehicle owners often find themselves in a situation where recalls are issued too late, leaving them vulnerable to accidents caused by defective parts. It is worth noting that only approximately 75% of recalled vehicles actually get repaired, as some owners either overlook the manufacturer’s notice or remain unaware of the recall altogether, especially if they purchased a used car or never received the notification letter. Therefore, it is crucial to take a proactive approach in regularly checking for vehicle recalls to prevent potential auto accidents resulting from faulty vehicle components. In the event that you have been involved in an auto accident due to a product defect, it is possible that you may be eligible for compensation to cover the damages you have suffered as a direct consequence of the crash. Additionally, you may also have grounds to file a claim against the manufacturer for their delayed response in issuing the recall.

IF YOU’VE BEEN INJURED IN A CAR, TRUCK, OR MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT, CONTACT US TODAY.

Named one of the “Best Car Accident Lawyers in Dallas” by Expertise.com, Brian Brunson is Dallas personal injury attorney who is dedicated to helping clients who have suffered a car, truck, or motorcycle injury through the negligent or wrongful conduct of other drivers. In addition, his professionalism is unmatched and the firms’ client reviews speak for themselves.

We proudly serve the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex and surrounding areas, our office supports the legal needs of a wide variety of clients. Let the Law Office of Brian Brunson be your advocate in your time of need and help you put your life back together. If we can’t win or settle your case, you don’t pay a dime! We know it can be daunting to take that first step after you’ve been hurt. Contact Brian Brunson today via email or call us toll-free at 1-844-41-WRECK. We can help, when no one else will.