Not all motor vehicles accidents are caused by driver error. Some are the result of a defective piece of equipment. It is estimated that millions of vehicles are currently on the road with unaddressed or unrepaired recalls. In light of Vehicle Safety Recalls Week, our attorneys want to make sure you have all the information that you need to stay safe behind the wheel.
Follow these steps from NHTSA to check for recalls:
- Locate your VIN: Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is an identifying code that is unique to your motor vehicle. It is like a fingerprint. No two vehicles have the same VIN. You can typically find this 17-character code on the lower left side of your windshield. If it isn’t there, it could be on your driver-side doorjamb. You can also check your registration. Once you have located your VIN, you can proceed to the next step.
- Search your VIN through NHTSA: NHTSA issued over 1,000 safety recalls affecting vehicles and other equipment just last year. Active recalls are stored in their database. Search for open recalls using your VIN at NHTSA.gov/Recalls at least twice a year.
- Follow the steps indicated in your search: Your search will tell you what steps to take in the event that there is an open safety recall that impacts your vehicle. Most likely, you will be instructed to take your vehicle to a local dealership immediately for a free repair.
- Don’t forget to check car seats, tires, and equipment: Recalls that could affect your safety on the road are not always specific to your vehicle. They are issued for things like child car seats and tires too. Other vehicle-related equipment can also be recalled. Fortunately, you can check for these recalls through the same NHTSA database.
Injured in a Crash Involving a Defective Vehicle?
Were you injured in a motor vehicle accident involving a defective vehicle or recalled equipment? You may have a claim against a manufacturer or another responsible party. It is possible to recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
Call 770-888-8901 to discuss your case for free with our Atlanta lawyers. The Law Offices of Humberto Izquerido, Jr., PC proudly serves Atlanta, Marietta, Cumming, and other nearby areas of Georgia.
