Kia Recalls 507,000 Cars and Minivans due to Defective Airbags

Kia is recalling 507,000 Cars and Minivans due to airbags that may not deploy in the event of a crash. There have been six incidents where the airbag did not deploy. Four people died and six were injured in those crashes. The vehicles airbag control unit can short circuit, causing airbags to not deploy when needed.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) launched an investigation this year into Hyundai and Kia after they received six reports of incidents where the airbags failed to deploy.

Kia says at this time there is no fix to the defect.  Once the manufacturer finds a solution to the defective airbags, they will begin to contact consumers.

How to know if your vehicle has been recalled

The following Kia vehicles are being recalled:

• 2010-2013 Forte cars manufactured from Feb. 24, 2009 – Aug. 31, 2012.
• 2010-2013 Forte Koup cars manufactured from June 5, 2009 – Aug. 31, 2012.

• 2011-2013 Optima cars manufactured from August 12, 2010 – Aug. 31, 2012.
• 2011-2012 Optima Hybrid cars manufactured from February 15, 2011 – through Aug. 31, 2012.

• 2011-2012 Sedona minivans manufactured from March 3, 2010 – Aug. 14, 2012.

Recovering compensation after an injury from a defective product

It is a manufacturer’s responsibility to make sure their products are safe for consumers.  If someone is injured or dies due to a defective product, a product liability claim may exist.  A claim may be pursued to pay for damages caused by the defective product such as medical bills, missed time from work and pain and suffering.

If you or someone you know has been seriously injured by a defective product, it is important to contact a personal injury attorney to review your rights.  Call 412-661-1400 to schedule a free consultation with a personal injury lawyer in Pittsburgh at Berger and Green today.

Source: Consumer Reports, “Kia Recalls 507,000 Cars and Minivans Over Airbags That May Not Deploy”