KIA RECALLS OVER 410K VEHICLES DUE TO AIR BAG DEFECT
Korean automaker Kia is recalling more than 410,000 vehicles in the U.S. to fix an issue that can stop the airbags from inflating in a crash. A South Korean service team had discovered the defect last July. The recall covers certain Forte small cars from the 2017 and 2018 model years, and Sedona minivans and Soul small SUVs from 2017 through 2019. The electric Soul is also included in the airbag recall.
Kia stated the issue stems from the airbag control unit cover being able to contact a memory chip and damage the electrical circuit, which could prevent the airbags from inflating. Non-deployment of an airbag when necessary is an extreme issue and can mean life or death in certain situations as they can reduce the risk of death in a frontal crash by as much as 30%. Although Kia expects that only 1% of the recalled vehicles are affected, it is important to get it inspected as soon as possible. If you are in an accident where the airbags fail to deploy, you risk suffering catastrophic injuries such as facial fractures, organ damage, internal bleeding, scarring, or even death. Airbags are crucial form of protection for everyone in a vehicle providing cushioning against brunt impact with the steering wheel, windows, or other parts of the car. According to the NHTSA, it is estimated that over 50,457 lives were saved by frontal airbags since 1987. Every driver has a right to expect their airbags to deploy properly, but unfortunately; airbag malfunctions are not as uncommon as you would think. Previous recalls involving airbag defects have resulted in numerous injuries and fatalities that could have been prevented if it were not for the malfunctioning airbags. If you are the owner of any of the mentioned Kias, be sure to see your dealer to make the necessary software updates or replacements. Repairs and replacements will be free of charge.
Kia will notify owners of the stated models by March 21. If you are wondering if your vehicle is included in a recall, be sure to visit the National Highway Traffic Administration’s website and plug in your vehicle identification number (VIN).
Upon entering your vehicle, you trust it’s safety features to protect you from harm and reduce the severity of the possible injury. However, sometimes they fail due to manufacturers’ negligence and error. If you or someone you know have one of the vehicles mentioned above and believe that your injuries in an accident were caused by a defective airbag deploy, be sure to inform the National Highway Traffic Safety and Association and contact an auto defect attorney at Potts Law Firm as soon as possible. You may be able to recover compensation for accident-related damages which may include medical bills, lost wages, ongoing care costs, pain and suffering, and out-of-pocket costs. Our lawyers are equipped and ready to investigate your claims. We are here to provide you with the legal representation you deserve. Even if you did not suffer any injuries, you may be entitled to damages. For more information and to schedule a free consultation, call (888) 420-1299
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