Toyota Airbag Lawsuit: Get the Right Lawyer

Toyota Airbag Lawsuit Overview

Federal auto safety regulators are urging the recall of about 52 million airbag inflators used in vehicles made by Toyota and at least 11 other automakers, calling the parts unsafe and susceptible to rupturing without warning.

These airbags, manufactured by ARC Automotive and Delphi Automotive Systems, have been linked to at least 7 injuries and 1 death in the U.S. and Canada.

The issue echoes the previous Takata airbag crisis, which resulted in one of the largest recalls in automotive history.

Latest Toyota Airbag Lawsuit Updates

• October 5, 2023 – NHTSA scheduled a public meeting on its recommendation to recall the 52 million airbag inflators manufactured by ARC Automotive and Delphi Automotive Systems. ARC has declined to issue a recall, claiming no defect exists and that NHTSA’s finding was not based on “any objective technical or engineering conclusion.”
• March 2023 – The most recent rupture incident occurred in Michigan, when the driver of a 2017 Chevrolet Traverse sustained severe facial injuries due to a defective airbag inflator.

FDA Reports and Statistics

The NHTSA investigation has revealed concerning statistics about ARC and Delphi airbag inflators:

• 41 million airbags were manufactured by ARC
• 11 million were produced by Delphi using ARC’s licensed design
• Production occurred in facilities across China, Mexico, and Knoxville, Tennessee
• The affected airbags were installed in vehicles manufactured from 2000 to 2018
• 7 injuries and 1 death have been confirmed in relation to these defective inflators

Toyota Airbag Injuries & Side Effects

Defective airbag inflators can cause severe injuries or death when they explode violently during deployment. The most common injuries include:

• Lacerations and Cuts: Metal fragments ejected at high speed can cause deep cuts to the face, neck, and upper body
• Facial Trauma: Severe damage to the eyes, nose, and facial structure
• Head Injuries: Including traumatic brain injury from impact with metal fragments
• Neck Injuries: Potentially life-threatening wounds to the throat and neck area
• Fatal Injuries: In the worst cases, the explosive force and metal shrapnel can cause death

Do You Qualify for a Toyota Airbag Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a Toyota Airbag lawsuit if:

• You owned or drove a Toyota vehicle manufactured between 2000 and 2018
• Your vehicle was equipped with an ARC or Delphi airbag inflator
• You or a loved one suffered injuries due to an airbag that exploded, ruptured, or malfunctioned
• The injuries required medical treatment or hospitalization
• You can provide medical documentation linking your injuries to the defective airbag

Evidence Required for a Toyota Airbag Lawsuit

To strengthen your claim, you’ll need to provide:

• Medical records documenting your injuries and treatments
• Vehicle ownership documentation
• Proof that your vehicle was subject to the airbag recall
• Photographs of injuries and/or vehicle damage
• Witness statements if available

Damages You Can Recover

Victims of defective Toyota airbags may be eligible to recover:

• Medical expenses for emergency care, surgeries, and ongoing treatment
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Disfigurement and scarring
• Punitive damages against the manufacturer
• Wrongful death damages for families who lost loved ones

Toyota Airbag Recall Information

The recall affects approximately 52 million airbag inflators used in vehicles made by Toyota and 11 other manufacturers.

The affected airbags were installed in vehicles produced from 2000 to 2018, including various Toyota models.

Other affected automakers include BMW, Ford, General Motors, Hyundai, Kia, Maserati, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Stellantis, Tesla, and Volkswagen.

Statute of Limitations for Toyota Airbag Lawsuits

The statute of limitations for filing a Toyota airbag lawsuit varies by state, typically ranging from 1-6 years from the date of injury or when the injury was discovered.

Some states may extend this period if the defect was concealed by the manufacturer.

It’s crucial to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure your claim is filed within the appropriate timeframe.

Related Articles:

• Malfunctioned Airbags Recall Lawsuit Update
• BMW Mini Cooper Litigation
• Volkswagen Beetle Lawsuit
• Pontiac Vibe Recall Defective Airbag Lawsuit

See all related product liability lawsuits our attorneys covered so far.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the signs that my Toyota airbag might be defective?

Signs of a defective airbag can include the airbag warning light staying on, a strange noise during deployment, visible wear or damage to the airbag cover, and unexplained chemical smells inside the vehicle. If you notice any of these signs, contact your dealer immediately.

2. How can I check if my Toyota vehicle has been recalled for airbag issues?

You can check for recalls by visiting the NHTSA website and entering your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), or by visiting the Toyota website and entering your VIN. This will provide information on any recalls or safety issues related to your vehicle.

3. What is the process for getting my airbag repaired or replaced if it is part of a recall?

If your airbag is part of a recall, contact your local Toyota dealership to schedule a repair. The repair or replacement of the defective airbag should be performed free of charge. Follow the instructions provided in the recall notice to ensure proper handling and safety.

4. Can I continue driving my Toyota vehicle if it has a recalled airbag?

It is not recommended to continue driving a vehicle with a recalled airbag, as it may not provide adequate protection in the event of a crash. Contact your dealership immediately to schedule a repair and minimize driving until the issue is resolved.

5. How much compensation can I receive from a Toyota airbag lawsuit?

Compensation amounts vary based on injury severity, medical expenses, lost wages, and other factors. Settlements may range from thousands to millions of dollars depending on the case specifics. Your attorney can provide a more accurate estimate based on your unique situation.

6. How long will it take to resolve my Toyota airbag lawsuit?

The timeline for resolution typically ranges from 1-3 years, depending on case complexity, evidence strength, and whether the case settles or goes to trial. Your attorney can provide more specific timeline estimates based on your circumstances.

7. Do I need a lawyer to file a Toyota airbag lawsuit?

While not legally required, having experienced legal representation significantly increases your chances of successful compensation. Product liability cases involve complex legal and technical issues that specialized attorneys are best equipped to handle.

8. What makes the ARC/Delphi airbag defect different from the Takata airbag issue?

The Takata defect involved propellant degradation due to humidity exposure, while the ARC/Delphi issue stems from manufacturing flaws where weld slag can block gas release channels. Both cause violent ruptures, but the root causes differ, requiring different remediation approaches.

Take Action Now: Time-Sensitive Legal Claims

Time is limited to pursue legal action for Toyota airbag injuries. Most states have a statute of limitations of only 2-3 years from the date of injury, and in some cases, this period may be even shorter. Don’t wait until it’s too late to seek the compensation you deserve.

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