When we purchase a motor vehicle, we’re expecting one without defects — especially when that vehicle is a luxury sedan.
Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. According to NBC NEWS, automaker BMW recently sent out a recall for 176,000 of its vehicles. This recalls affects model years 2012 to 2014 and involved the power brake system. In the U.S., this recall covers more than 76,000 vehicles.
Our New York City car accident attorneys understand that the BMW models affected in this recall are models that have four-cylinder, 2-liter gasoline engines and include 125i compacts. Current owners will be notified by mail regarding repairs. Unfortunately, owners are not always aware of recalls and safety defects in time. If you get stuck on the road without brake-assist power, BMW officials have advised drivers to pull over and call roadside assistance.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) provides recall information including vehicle and equipment campaigns from 1966 to present day. One of the most popular ways to check out motor vehicle recalls is through the Administration’s SaferCar.gov website. This database provides an in-depth record of safety issues for vehicles, child restraints, tires and equipment. You can search the model year, make and model of your vehicle to stay up to date with the most recent information.
If you or someone you love has been injured or suffered damages because of a product (or vehicle) you used, you could very well have a defective product liability claim. Though the range of defective product cases is broad, the claims typically fall into three categories of product liability: defective manufacture, defective design or failure to provide adequate warnings or instructions.
Americans have access to a plethora of vehicles from a number of countries — many of them imported. While we may have the world’s best selection of automobiles, we are also exposed to a lot of goods that may be dangerous or even defective.
In 2011, there more than 15 million vehicles recalled from auto manufacturers, including Honda, Acura, Toyota, Ford, Chrysler, Subaru, Hyundai, General Motors, Nissan, Volkswagen, BMW and Mazda.
Unfortunately, many companies are hesitant to announce recalls. Companies that diligently issue recalls run the risk that their competition will use the recall as an example of their own brand’s superiority; those caught hiding a known defect until it’s too late are often crucified in the media.
Don’t let a recall catch you at an inconvenience. Stay up to date with the most recent recalls and safety releases. You have rights as a consumer and those rights need to be protected.
If you or a loved one has been injured by a defective product, contact the Law Offices of Nicholas Rose, PLLC for a free and confidential consultation. Call 1-877-313-7673.
More Blog Entries:
FDA Warns Against Unsterile Compounding Pharmacy Products, New York Injury Lawyer Blog, August 25, 2013
CPSC Fight Highlights Risk of Defective Product Injuries in New York, New York Injury Lawyer Blog, August 10, 2013
