Respect the Recall or Suffer the Costly Consequences
In addition to the well-publicized Toyota recalls and a large Ford recall, automakers have also issued recalls on 2010 models from GM, Hyundai, Infiniti, Acura and more. Though some may seem to be minor issues, vehicle owners may face safety hazards and insurance liabilities if they ignore such recalls.
Recalls Promote Safety
Traffic accidents are the leading cause of death for Americans under the age of 34, and they account for approximately 42,000 deaths per year. However, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) suggests these deadly accident rates can be reduced with voluntary and government-ordered vehicle recalls. Since 1966, more than 390 million vehicles, 46 million tires and 42 million child safety seats have been recalled to correct safety defects, according to the DOT.
A 2005 study suggests that such safety recall repairs can reduce the number of crashes involving the recalled model by 20 percent.
Costly Insurance Consequences
In addition to reducing accidents, performing safety recall repairs can also help prevent punitive actions by auto insurance companies. The Pennsylvania Insurance Department warns drivers that their insurance premiums could increase or their coverage could be canceled if they are in a crash that can be tied to an overlooked safety recall.
In October of last year, Ford issued the largest recall in company history. A faulty cruise control switch was found to create a fire safety hazard in rare cases, so the company recalled 4.5 million vehicles to fix the part. According to Pennsylvania insurance officials, if a Ford driver filed a fire claim after ignoring the recall, the insurance company could use this claim to cancel coverage or increase premium rates.
Respect the Recall
The massive Toyota recall has many Toyota owners worried about increased insurance rates for all Toyota models. Potentially higher insurance premiums are among the concerns cited in the dozens of class action lawsuits currently pending against the troubled carmaker.
On the other hand, insurance companies are not allowed to deny a claim simply because a car was listed for a safety recall. Safety recalls are also fairly easy to handle. Federal law requires automakers to tell owners of affected vehicles about recall notices and offer timely repairs or replacements at no charge. To check on recalls for any vehicle, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration at http://www.nhtsa.gov.
To maintain both personal safety and insurance coverage with reasonable premiums, it is important to stay abreast of recalls and quickly fix any reported problems. If you are in a car accident involving a recalled vehicle or other knowingly defective vehicle part or equipment, consult an experienced local personal injury attorney immediately.
