What Happened
There were two separate recalls jointly released by the company; first an airbag control issue that affects over 752,000 Corolla and Corolla Matrix cars sold in 2003 and 2004, and secondly a windshield wiper issue that affects some 270,000 Lexus IS models sold between 2006 and early 2012.
The airbags in the Corolla have the likelihood to deploy inadvertently. A circuit in the airbag can become damaged over time, this will result in a short circuit than cause the airbag to deploy without a crash. There have been 47 reports overall with 18 injuries and two unconfirmed crashes.
The Lexus wipers may not operate after being restricted by a heavy buildup of snow. Even after the snow has been cleared a nut within the wiper can come loose and restrict the wipers from their full function.
This is not Toyota’s first major recall; in 2009-2010 a recall was issued for more than 8 million Toyota vehicles involving sticky accelerator pedals. As well as in 2012 two separate recalls were issued; one was issued for 7.4 million cars due to a fire hazard caused by the power windows, and the second a month later for 2.8 million cars because of problems with steering and hybrid systems.
The Virginia Personal Injury Lawyers’ Perspective
It’s good that Toyota alerts consumers to their faulty equipment to avoid injury or possible death. However, the number of major recalls in the past few years is disconcerting. Why are so many poorly constructed vehicles produced from their factories? As a Virginia (VA) personal injury firm we have helped many victims of dangerous and defective products recover damages. In no case have we been able to find reasonable answers for a company’s negligence to let unsafe products reach the marketplace.
Potentially Helpful Info
Defective and dangerous products come in all shapes and sizes, from cars to cribs. If you or a family member has been injured, sickened or killed by an unsafe product you can begin to learn about your legal rights and options by reading this free guide.
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