Multiple auto recalls are launched because of issues that could increase the risk of injuries, exposing drivers, passengers and others to major risks. But some happen because equipment issues may lead to visibility risks that will put drivers on harm’s way. The latest recall to impact vehicles manufactured by two automakers is associated precisely with that, visibility issues.
According to regulators and automakers Hyundai and Kia, half a million vehicles are being recalled in the United States because the issue could increase the risk of an accident.
Impacted vehicles include 134,000 Kia Forte units of the 2012 through 2014 year makes as well as 390,000 Hyundai Elantra vehicles of the 2013 and 2014 year makes.
Both automakers filed documents with the government that claim that the polymer stopper pads in the vehicles may deteriorate. They sit between the pedal arm and the light switch and they allow the switch to stay on. If the stopper pads deteriorate, however, then the brake lights may remain on and the driver may be able to shift out of park without pressing the brake. If this happens, then the vehicle may end up rolling away unexpectedly or the driver following behind may believe that the impacted car is slowing down, increasing the risk of a rear-ending crash.
While neither of the companies associated with this recall have reported any accidents tied to the issue at hand, it’s important that impacted vehicle owners are not ignoring this recall as it may lead to accidents that could even lead to injuries.
As personal injury attorneys, we have seen countless of accidents caused by defective equipment that should have been repaired promptly. Do not hesitate to contact us if you were injured in an accident caused by a negligent driver or automaker that simply failed to have vehicles repaired once an issued was reported or discovered.
For more on this recall campaign, click on this link.
