In recent years, the number of automobile recalls has risen substantially. Annual auto recalls have more than doubled since the early 1990s. Nearly 19 million vehicles were recalled in 2002 -- about 1 of 11 on the road.

Since 1966, more than 299 million cars, trucks, buses, recreational vehicles, motorcycles and mopeds, as well as 43 million tires and 84 million pieces of motor vehicle equipment, including child seats, have been recalled to correct safety defects.

Defects that result in an auto recall can range from a minor mechanical defect like a glitch in a door lock to major defects such as faulty axles. Sometimes an automobile recall is issued for a simple driving hindrance while other recalls are truly safety hazards that necessitate immediate attention.

Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards set minimum performance requirements for those parts of the vehicle that most affect its safe operation (brakes, tires, lighting) or that protect drivers and passengers from death or serious injury in the event of a crash (air bags, safety belts, child restraints, energy absorbing steering columns, motorcycle helmets). These standards are applicable to all vehicles and equipment manufactured or imported for sale in the United States (including the territories) and certified for use on public roads and highways.

Vehicle recalls become necessary when:

As the registered owner of a vehicle, you will typically receive a recall notice by mail when a manufacturer issues a recall on your car or tires. However, sometimes owners don’t receive their automobile recall notice. Numerous factors can contribute this, with the most likely being a move. You can quickly and easily check for automobile recalls via the internet by using links to the online resources provided by the Department of Motor Vehicles for your particular state.

If you notice something about your vehicle that just seems “not right," you should check to see if an auto recall has been issued. It’s a good idea to check for recalls frequently in case any safety issues are discovered and your recall notice is lost in the mail.

The National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act (1966) gives the Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) the authority to issue vehicle safety standards and to require manufacturers to recall vehicles with safety-related defects or that do not meet safety standards.

If you have been injured due to a defect with your vehicle, it may be best to consult an attorney.  Contact one of the personal injury lawyers at Brown & Crouppen to discuss your case today.

Do not settle for less than fair compensation. Call Brown & Crouppen Toll Free: 866-991-4700 for your free legal consultation or save time with our online Contact Form.