Cadillac Escalade Lawsuit | 2025 Latest Updates

If you or a loved one experienced injuries following an airbag deployment or malfunction in a Cadillac Escalade, you may be entitled to pursue compensation.

At Schmidt & Clark, LLP, we are dedicated to helping individuals who have suffered due to defective airbag systems.

Our experienced legal team is here to guide you through the process and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact Schmidt & Clark, LLP today for a free, no-obligation consultation.

Cadillac Escalade Lawsuit Overview

The Cadillac Escalade lawsuits stem from serious safety concerns related to defective airbag inflators that pose significant risk to vehicle occupants.

The primary allegations involve Takata-manufactured airbag inflators containing phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) propellant, which can deteriorate over time and potentially explode during deployment.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), an inflator explosion may propel sharp metal fragments toward vehicle occupants, causing severe injuries or death.

This defect has prompted General Motors to issue a recall affecting thousands of Cadillac Escalade models manufactured between 2007 and 2011.

What’s The Problem?

According to the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), this recall affects:

• 2007-2011 Cadillac Escalade
• 2007-2011 Cadillac Escalade ESV
• 2007-2011 Cadillac Escalade EXT
• 2007-2008 Cadillac Escalade
• 2007-2008 Cadillac Escalade ESV
• 2007-2008 Cadillac Escalade EXT

These SUVs are equipped with non-desiccated passenger frontal inflators containing phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) propellant, which could explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high-temperature cycling.

“An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants, resulting in serious injury or death.”- U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA

Latest Cadillac Escalade Lawsuit Updates

March 1, 2021

– General Motors began implementing a recall for 2007-2011 Cadillac Escalade models to replace potentially dangerous passenger-side frontal airbag inflators that could rupture during deployment [1].

The recall affects approximately 285,000 Cadillac Escalade vehicles across the United States. This action is part of the larger Takata airbag recall, which is the largest automotive recall in U.S. history, affecting tens of millions of vehicles from 19 different automakers.

To date, defective Takata airbags have been linked to at least 27 deaths and more than 400 injuries worldwide.

NHTSA Reports and Statistics

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the Takata airbag recall affecting Cadillac Escalade models is classified as a high-priority safety recall due to the severe risk posed by the defective inflators.

NHTSA data indicates that the risk of an airbag rupture increases significantly in vehicles that have been operated in regions with high absolute humidity and fluctuating high temperatures for extended periods [2].

As of 2021, NHTSA reports that approximately 67 million Takata airbag inflators have been recalled in the United States, with around 50 million having been repaired or otherwise accounted for.

The agency continues to monitor completion rates and pursue maximum recall effectiveness for all affected vehicles, including the Cadillac Escalade models.

Cadillac Escalade Airbag Injuries & Risks

The defective Takata airbag inflators in affected Cadillac Escalade models can cause severe and potentially life-threatening injuries when they malfunction during deployment.

• Shrapnel Injuries: Metal fragments from exploding inflators can cause deep lacerations, puncture wounds, and serious facial injuries
• Eye Trauma: Propelled fragments may cause partial or complete vision loss when they strike the face
• Neck and Throat Damage: Metal shards can cause serious vascular injuries leading to severe bleeding and potentially fatal outcomes
• Traumatic Brain Injuries: High-velocity fragments may penetrate the skull, causing permanent brain damage or death
• Internal Organ Damage: Metal fragments can penetrate the chest cavity, potentially damaging the heart, lungs, and other vital organs

Do You Qualify for a Cadillac Escalade Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a Cadillac Escalade lawsuit if:

• You own or owned a 2007-2011 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, or Escalade EXT
• You or a passenger suffered injuries from a malfunctioning airbag deployment
• The injuries required medical treatment
• You can provide documentation linking your injuries to the defective airbag
• Your vehicle was part of the recall for defective Takata airbag inflators

Evidence Required for a Cadillac Escalade Lawsuit

• Vehicle ownership documentation proving you owned an affected model
• Medical records detailing injuries sustained from the airbag deployment
• Photographs of injuries and vehicle damage following the incident
• Police or accident reports documenting the airbag deployment
• Recall notices or service records related to the airbag recall
• Witness statements regarding the airbag malfunction

Damages You Can Recover

• Medical Expenses: Costs for emergency treatment, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing care
• Lost Wages: Compensation for time missed from work due to injuries
• Pain and Suffering: Damages for physical pain and emotional trauma
• Diminished Value: Compensation for the reduced value of your vehicle due to the defect
• Funeral Expenses: Coverage for funeral costs in wrongful death cases
• Punitive Damages: Additional compensation in cases where manufacturers showed gross negligence

Cadillac Escalade Recall Information

The Cadillac Escalade recall began on March 1, 2021, and affects 2007-2011 Escalade, Escalade ESV, and Escalade EXT models equipped with non-desiccated Takata PSAN airbag inflators.

This recall is part of the larger Takata airbag recall, which has been described as the largest and most complex safety recall in U.S. automotive history.

General Motors is replacing the defective front passenger airbag inflators with alternative designs that do not use the problematic phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate propellant. The replacement service is provided free of charge to all owners and lessees of affected vehicles.

Vehicle owners can check if their Cadillac Escalade is affected by this recall by visiting the NHTSA website and entering their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), or by contacting GM’s customer service at 1-866-522-9559. The GM recall number for this issue is N202324210.

Statute of Limitations for Cadillac Escalade Lawsuits

The statute of limitations for filing a Cadillac Escalade lawsuit varies by state, typically ranging from 2 to 6 years from the date of injury or discovery of the defect.

For product liability claims involving airbag defects, many states apply the “discovery rule,” meaning the limitation period begins when you discovered or reasonably should have discovered that your injury was caused by the defective airbag.

States with shorter limitations periods include:

• Tennessee (1 year)
• Kentucky (1 year)
• Louisiana (1 year)

States with longer limitations periods include:

• Maine (6 years)
• North Dakota (6 years)
• Minnesota (6 years)

For wrongful death claims resulting from airbag injuries, different limitation periods may apply.

Due to these variations and complexities, consulting with an attorney promptly after experiencing airbag-related injuries is crucial to preserve your legal rights and ensure your claim is filed within the applicable deadline.

Related Articles:

• Malfunctioned Airbags Recall Lawsuit Update
• Cadillac CTS Recall Lawsuit
• Toyota Tacoma Recall Litigation

FAQs

1. What Are the Typical Legal Procedures Involved in a Cadillac Escalade Lawsuit?

Legal procedures include filing a complaint, gathering evidence, engaging in discovery, attending pre-trial hearings, and potentially going to trial. Each step helps build a strong case for the lawsuit.

2. Are There Any Known Class Action Lawsuits for Cadillac Escalade Owners With Similar Issues?

Yes, Cadillac Escalade owners may be part of class action lawsuits if they share similar issues. Check legal resources or consult an attorney to find out about current class actions.

3. How Can Cadillac Escalade Owners Document Their Experiences and Issues for a Lawsuit?

Owners should keep detailed records of defects, repairs, maintenance, and communications with the manufacturer. Photographs, repair receipts, and written descriptions of issues can also support their lawsuit.

4. How Do I Check If My Cadillac Escalade Is Part of the Airbag Recall?

Visit the NHTSA website (SaferCar.gov) and enter your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), call GM’s customer service at 1-866-522-9559, or contact your local Cadillac dealership with your vehicle information to verify if your Escalade is affected by the recall.

5. Can I Still Drive My Cadillac Escalade If It’s Under Recall?

NHTSA and GM strongly advise against driving vehicles with recalled Takata airbags that haven’t been repaired, especially older models in high-humidity regions. If you must drive, avoid having passengers in the front seat until the repair is completed.

6. What If I Sold My Recalled Cadillac Escalade Before Getting It Repaired?

You should notify both the buyer and GM about the ownership transfer so recall notices can be sent to the new owner. If you sustained injuries before selling the vehicle, you may still be eligible to file a claim despite no longer owning the vehicle.

7. How Long Does a Cadillac Escalade Airbag Lawsuit Typically Take?

The timeline varies widely based on case complexity, with individual claims potentially resolving within 6-18 months while class action lawsuits may take 2-3 years or longer. Your attorney can provide a more specific estimate based on your circumstances.

See all related product liability lawsuits we’ve covered.

Take Action Now: Time-Sensitive Legal Claims

Time is limited to pursue legal action for injuries related to defective Cadillac Escalade airbags. Most states have a statute of limitations of only 2-4 years from the date of injury or discovery, with some states allowing as little as 1 year to file a claim.

At Schmidt & Clark, LLP we offer:

• Free, confidential consultations to evaluate your case
• No upfront costs or attorney fees
• Payment only if we win your case

Don’t wait until it’s too late to seek justice and compensation. Contact our experienced product liability attorneys today to protect your rights and explore your legal options for holding the manufacturer accountable for these dangerous defects.

References

1.https://www.cars.com/research/cadillac-escalade_esv/recalls/?page=3

2.https://www.nhtsa.gov/equipment/takata-recall-spotlight