How to Handle a Vehicle Recall

Manufacturers recall vehicles almost daily. Sometimes, these recalls are on smaller parts, and other times, they’re on important mechanical components. How you respond to these recall notifications can affect your liability and legal eligibility if a defective or faulty part leads you or your passenger to become injured.

What is a Vehicle Recall?

A recall occurs when a manufacturer or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) determines that the vehicle or any parts are unsafe. This is determined by a vehicle’s ability to meet certain minimum safety standards. Some recalls issued are mandatory, meaning the manufacturer is required to notify consumers. Other recalls are voluntary, meaning the manufacturer decides to be proactive and issue a recall before it’s required.

What To Do When You Receive a Vehicle Recall

You’ll most likely receive a vehicle recall notice in the mail. You should take action to handle the situation as soon as possible. A recall typically means you can visit your nearest dealership to have the defective part repaired or replaced at no cost. Follow the directions in the recall notice carefully. It can also be helpful to mention it and bring it with you when you visit the mechanic.

How To Find Out If Your Vehicle Has Any Recalls

Manufacturers should notify you of any vehicle recalls. However, sometimes, people may miss these notices, especially if they move. It can be helpful to check regularly if there are any current recalls on your vehicle. You can find recall information on the NHTSA website. All you have to do is input your vehicle identification number (VIN). The website will show you a list of any unrepaired vehicles affected by a recall within the last 15 years. This includes all vehicle recalls for light, medium, and heavy automobiles.

This tool won’t show you recalls already fixed. It also doesn’t work with international vehicles. The list is also exclusive to the last 15 years, so you won’t be able to look up any recalls before that. You can also sign up for text alerts to notify you of any new recalls for your current vehicle so you know about them as soon as possible.

How a Vehicle Recall Affects Your Legal Rights

If you’re in an accident and the cause is ruled to be a defective part or faulty engine, you may seek damages from the manufacturer. However, if the manufacturer already warned you of the defective part and you ignored it, they may be released from liability.

There may be some exceptions that could still hold the manufacturer liable. For example, if the manufacturer didn’t properly notify you of the recall, they may be to blame. The date of the recall notice may also affect your case. The manufacturer must notify you with enough time to make any necessary repairs or replacements. Additionally, all recall notices should have clear instructions on what you need to do. If they don’t, they may still be held liable.

Injured in a Car Accident With a Recall?

If you were in a car accident with a recall, it may be beneficial to reach out to a lawyer. The manufacturer may try to deny blame, even if they’re responsible.

Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer Near You to Discuss Your Defective Auto Part Accident Case in New Jersey

Were you or a loved one injured in New Jersey due to a defective auto part? Don’t let the medical bills pile up while you wait for the negligent party or their insurance company to do the right thing. Right now, you need an aggressive personal injury attorney on your side, fighting to get you the compensation you need, want, and deserve. The skilled attorneys at Drazin and Warshaw, P.C. represent clients injured in Middlesex, Edison, Perth Amboy, Westfield, New Brunswick, and throughout Ocean County, Monmouth County, Union County, and Middlesex County, New Jersey. Call (732) 576-8860 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a consultation about your case. We have an office conveniently located at 3315 Route 35, Hazlet, NJ 07730 as well as offices in Red Bank, Brick, and Westfield.

The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.