Unfortunately, vehicles are sometimes built with dangerous defects. These defects have led to many accidents, causing serious injuries, and sometimes death, to those involved. One of the more notable recalls in recent years was the 14.4 million tires recalled by Bridgestone/Firestone and Ford in the year 2000. The injuries that resulted from the defect in these tires had a devastating impact on many people around the U.S., including many Las Vegans.
The danger defective cars pose on Las Vegas roadways is significant and affects all of us. That is why it is so critical to make sure that any open recalls on your vehicle are addressed. Like the Bridgestone/Firestone recall discussed above, many vehicle and tire defects can lead to severe injuries, and even death, if left unrepaired. In fact, ensuring defects are identified and repaired was one of the reasons the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) was established. It works to ensure manufacturers of cars and their parts, including tires, equipment, and child safety seats, comply with current safety standards when generating new products and requires manufacturers to notify them of any known defects that might pose a risk to consumers immediately upon discovering it.
How do I know if there is a recall on my car?
Registered vehicle owners will be notified via mail of any recent recalls. In addition, the NHTSA’s website provides a search tool you can use to find out about current recalls. You can also enter your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) in the NHTSA Safety Issues & Recalls’ search to quickly identify any recalls that have been issued on your car in the past 15 years here (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls).
What are my options if there is an active recall on my car?
If your vehicle is less than 10 years old, you are entitled to obtain the necessary repairs from your local dealership free of charge. Be sure to contact the dealership right away if you receive a recall notice to make an appointment and verify the recall is still covered by the manufacturer. You typically do not have to go to the location at which you purchased the vehicle, any Las Vegas area dealership for the same manufacturer of your vehicle should be fine.
What if my tires are recalled?
If you receive a notice stating your car or truck’s tires have been recalled, you typically have a very limited window, often only 60 days, in which to obtain repairs or replacements, depending on the severity of the recall. Whenever you purchase new tires or any part for your vehicle, always be sure to register that part with the manufacturer to ensure they have your information in the event of a recall. Some mechanics and tire shops will offer to do this for you too.
Contact SJW Injury Attorneys for Representation
If you were in a car accident in Las Vegas and believe the wreck might have been caused by a defect in your car or its tires, contact SJW Injury Attorneys today. One of our highly experienced attorneys can provide you with a telephonic or in-person consultation, completely free of charge. We can initiate an investigation on your behalf and file a complaint with the NHTSA and a claim with your insurance company for the auto accident.
