In September, GM issued a recall of more than 3.6 million vehicles because of a reported airbag defect that may prevent the airbag from engaging during a collision or other triggering event. In a letter from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to General Motors, the agency stated, “A failure of the front air bags or seat belt pretensioners to deploy in the event of a crash necessitating deployment increases the risk of injury to the driver and front passenger.”
Sources report that at least one person has died and three more injured in accidents linked 
to failure of the airbags. Apparently, the problem is based upon unusual circumstances in which a vehicle’s sensing and diagnostic modules enter test mode, thus preventing the front airbags from deploying in a crash. Also, reports indicate that seatbelt pretensioners may also not work as originally intended.
GM vehicles included in the recall were Buick, Chevrolet, and other GMC vehicles, all with model years of 2014 or later. Owners of the recalled vehicles may take them to their local GM dealer for repair. Consumers may use the provided link to see if their vehicle is the subject of this, or any, recall.
Earlier this year, a massive recall of Takata airbags occurred, which was linked to 10 deaths and 100 injuries worldwide. Vehicles by 14 automakers were recalled because of defects related to airbags that had parts supplied by Takata from 2002 to 2015. In these airbags, the inflator could ignite with too much force, sending metal shrapnel into a vehicle’s cabin and potentially injuring occupants. The GM airbags are reportedly not linked to the Takata airbags.
Consumer safety is important to the attorneys at Powell Law who have litigated on behalf of those injured by the use of a product, device, or other merchandise for 110 years. If you have been injured as a result of a defective safety feature of a motor vehicle, such as an airbag, call Powell Law. Your first consultation is free. Contact us online or call (570) 961-0777.
