Did you forget about the Takata AirBag recall? Unfortunately, it’s still in effect. Because of the size of this global recall, there have been quite a few delays since the first recall in 2008 when a passenger was killed by a faulty Takata AirBag.

So far, as of February 1st, 2022, only 19 million recovered airbags have been documented in the RAS Takata database out of up to a hundred million in use, which means this recall is far from finished. In fact, it isn’t expected to end before 2023.

So far there have been 19 deaths in the United States that have been directly linked to these faulty airbags. It’s important for drivers to continue to remain aware of vehicle recalls. Here’s what you need to know.

It Can’t Be That Dangerous…
Yes, yes it can. Experts have determined that the chemicals in Takata Airbags is what causes the fatal functions. Takata airbags use a chemical called ammonium nitrate compound mixed with a drying agent. This is used to inflate the bag when a collision happens. However, this chemical combination burns up way too fast, which can cause the airbag to explode when it blows up. An airbag explosion can cause the following personal injuries as well as others.

  • Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs).
  • Neck and spinal cord injuries.
  • Ocular injuries.
  • Broken bones of the upper body such as ribs, arms, wrists, and even fingers.
  • Contusions, soft tissue damage, and lacerations.
  • Double Crush Syndrome (DCS).
  • Burns and bruising.
  • Internal organ damage.
  • Breathing complications such as asthma.

If you’ve experienced the injuries listed above, or other personal injury because of a car accident, it’s important to seek medical attention right away – even if you think you’re alright. There could be underlying issues that you don’t feel yet because of adrenaline. In addition, delaying seeking medical help can hurt your claim, therefore negatively affecting your chances of receiving compensation.

It’s also vital that you hire an attorney to ensure that you get the compensation you need to cover medical expenses, and more.

Is My Car Under Recall?
A few popular vehicles that use Takata AirBags include 2003-2007 Toyota Corolla and Toyota Corolla Matrixes, 2005-2007 Sequoias, 2005-2006 Tundras, and the 2003-2007 Lexus SC430. If you have any of the previously mentioned cars, call your local dealer to have the necessary repairs done for free.

To find out if your car or truck is under recall, just visit NHTSA.gov/recalls and look up your car’s VIN number in the search bar. You should be able to find the VIN in at least one of the following locations in your vehicle.

  • On top of the driver side dashboard.
  • Inside of the driver door frame..
  • The underside of the hood.
  • On the front or rear frame.

The number is usually stamped into the metal. If you are unable to locate the VIN, a mechanic will be able to find it for you.

What Can My Lawyer Do?
Car accident injuries, like all personal injuries, can turn your life upside down, especially in terms of finances. Hiring an attorney is key to ensure that you win your case, and that the settlement you receive is enough to cover all of your current and future expenses related to your injury, such as the following.

  • Reparations for out of pocket payments you’ve had to make.
  • A portion of lost wages due to being out of work during recovery.
  • Medical bills for current treatment, and any ongoing medical expenses such as prescriptions, appointments, future surgeries, or physical therapy.
  • Pain and suffering.

Don’t go it alone. Hire one of our experienced car accident lawyers to guide you through the legal process, and win the compensation you deserve. Call us today to schedule your initial consultation for free legal advice from a Kansas City lawyer near you.