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What is Accident Shrapnel and Can I Sue?

You have the right to sue companies for defective airbags that release metal shrapnel when activated, increasing the risk of serious car accident injuries.

Most drivers are familiar with the Takata airbag scandal. Since 2014, millions of cars have been recalled due to product defects that caused the airbags to violently explode when deployed. While the company has since gone out of business, problems with its product continue to persist. Our Oklahoma City car accident attorneys explain how shrapnel contained within the airbags could cause serious harm and how you can sue for compensation.

Airbags May Contain Shrapnel, Increasing Car Accident Injury Risks 

In the ongoing saga of the Takata airbag scandal, there is a new danger of which all drivers need to be aware. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that problems with high heat and humidity that caused the airbags to explode violently resulted in massive recalls of tens of millions of vehicles since 2014. In 2019, more recalls were issued over concerns that a separate defect, this time in the airbags’ inflator functioning, could cause sharp metal shrapnel to be released along with the airbag.

A recent report by Car and Driver states that close to two dozen people have been killed due to flying shrapnel, while more than 200 others sustained serious personal injuries. Dozens of automotive companies have been forced to issue recalls as a result, offering free replacements for over 56 million vehicles, However, there is still an estimated 15.9 million drivers with defective Takata airbags that have not been replaced. Concerned that your vehicle could be one of them? The NHTSA advises taking the following steps:

  • Use your vehicle identification number to check to see if your vehicle is subject to the Takata recall via the NHTSA safety recall list.
  • Contact a local dealer to schedule an appointment for a free replacement.
  • Refrain from driving the vehicle until you get the fix.
  • Check back with the recall list if your vehicle is not currently on it. Unfortunately, more cars are being added each month.

Injured Due to Shrapnel from Takata Airbags? Your Right to Sue

Takata reached a billion-dollar settlement with the U.S. Department of Justice in 2017. A portion of these funds was set aside for free airbag replacements, while close to $127 million was designated to provide compensation for victims. You have the right to sue the company if shrapnel in exploding airbags left you suffering serious personal injuries. Compensation you may be entitled to includes:

  • Coverage of current and future medical expenses;
  • Reimbursement for lost wages and future losses in earnings due to long term disabilities;
  • Compensation for pain, suffering, and any loss of enjoyment in life you experience due to your injuries.

Contact Our Oklahoma City Car Accident Attorneys Today

Have you been injured due to shrapnel in an exploding Takata airbag? Boettcher, Devinney, Ingle & Wicker can help you get the compensation you deserve. Call or contact our Oklahoma City car accident attorneys online to request a consultation today.

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