Toyota Rav4 Recall Lawsuit Attorney

Toyota RAV4 Recall Lawsuit Overview

The Toyota RAV4 lawsuits primarily involve defective airbag inflators that may absorb moisture, causing the airbags to rupture or under-inflate during an accident. These defects place drivers and passengers at risk of serious injury or death from metal fragments that could strike at high speed during airbag deployment. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has identified multiple Toyota vehicle models with these critical safety issues.

Related Article: Malfunctioned Airbags Recall Lawsuit Update

Latest Toyota RAV4 Lawsuit Updates

January 10, 2025 – A separate lawsuit claims faulty liftgate hinges in certain Toyota RAV4 models have led to dangerous failures, adding to the automaker’s legal challenges [1].

July 31, 2024 – While affected RAV4 owners may receive just $75 in the settlement, legal counsel involved in the lawsuit will collect over $13 million in fees, sparking public criticism.

July 16, 2024 – Eligible Toyota RAV4 owners can now file claims under a battery defect settlement that compensates for related repair costs and other damages.

June 25, 2024 – Toyota has agreed to a class action settlement for 2013–2018 RAV4 models due to battery-related issues, offering benefits and reimbursements for affected consumers.

NHTSA Reports and Statistics

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has documented numerous recalls involving Toyota RAV4 vehicles:

• Multiple Toyota RAV4 models from 1997 to 2021, spanning all generations, have been subject to numerous NHTSA recalls addressing various defects.
• An airbag inflator defect tied to Takata recalls affects 197,468 Toyota RAV4 vehicles from 2004-2005, risking rupture; a separate 2020-2021 airbag sensor issue impacts 363,290 units across multiple models.
• Horizontal headlight beam adjustment issues in 2,015 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime vehicles, recalled in December 2020, could increase glare and crash risk due to improperly secured aiming caps.

Toyota RAV4 Injuries & Side Effects

Toyota RAV4 defects have been linked to several serious injuries and safety risks.

• Airbag Rupture: Metal fragments striking occupants at high speed
• Under-inflated Airbags: Insufficient protection during crashes
• Headlight Glare: Reduced visibility for oncoming drivers and vehicle operators
• Crash Injuries: Severe bodily harm or death resulting from safety defects

Do You Qualify for a Toyota RAV4 Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a Toyota RAV4 lawsuit if:

• You own or owned a Toyota RAV4 from the affected model years (1998-2000, 2021 Prime)
• You experienced serious injuries from a malfunctioning airbag or accident related to headlight issues
• The injuries required medical treatment or hospitalization
• You can provide medical documentation linking your injuries to the Toyota RAV4 defect

Evidence Required for a Toyota RAV4 Lawsuit

For a successful Toyota RAV4 lawsuit, you will need evidence including:

• The defective part (if available)
• Medical records documenting your injuries
• Accident reports
• Expert testimony on the vehicle’s safety standards
• Any communication with the manufacturer or dealer regarding the defect

Damages You Can Recover

In a Toyota RAV4 recall lawsuit, you may be able to recover:

• Medical expenses related to your injuries
• Lost wages due to inability to work
• Pain and suffering compensation
• Punitive damages against the manufacturer

Toyota RAV4 Recall Information

2013-2018 Toyota RAV4 Recall:

• Toyota has recalled approximately 1.854 million RAV4 SUVs from model years 2013 through 2018 due to a fire risk caused by improperly secured replacement 12-volt batteries. If the battery moves during sharp turns, it could short-circuit and increase the risk of fire. Toyota is preparing a remedy that includes replacing the battery hold-down clamp, tray, and positive terminal cover at no cost to owners [2].

Other RAV4 Recalls:

• 2006-2011 RAV4 Models: Recalled due to a power window switch that could short-circuit and pose a fire risk
• 2004-2005 RAV4 Models: Recalled for defective Takata airbag inflators that could rupture during deployment
• 2014-2015 RAV4 Models: Recalled for potential loss of power steering assist
• 2012 RAV4 Models: Recalled for software issues affecting ABS and traction control functions

Statute of Limitations for Toyota RAV4 Lawsuits

The statute of limitations for filing a Toyota RAV4 lawsuit typically ranges from one to three years from the date of injury or discovery of the defect, depending on your state’s laws. It’s crucial to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure your claim is filed within the legal time limits.

Related Articles:

• Cadillac Escalade Tort
• Toyota Tacoma Recall Lawsuit

FAQs

1. How long do I have to file a lawsuit for injuries caused by a defect in my Toyota RAV4?

The statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit varies by state but typically ranges from one to three years from the date of injury or discovery of the defect.

2. What evidence is needed to support a lawsuit for injuries caused by a defect in my Toyota RAV4?

Evidence includes the defective part, medical records documenting your injuries, accident reports, expert testimony on the vehicle’s safety standards, and any communication with the manufacturer or dealer regarding the defect.

3. Are there any recent cases involving Toyota RAV4 defects?

Recent cases can be found through legal databases and news articles. These sources provide information on ongoing lawsuits, settlements, and the specific defects reported by other users.

4. What specific defects are included in the Toyota RAV4 recalls?

The recalls include defective airbag inflators that may rupture or under-inflate during an accident and improperly closed headlight aiming caps that allow for horizontal adjustment of the headlight beam.

5. How will I know if my Toyota RAV4 is included in a recall?

Toyota notifies owners of affected vehicles directly. You can also check if your vehicle is included in a recall by entering your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the NHTSA website or Toyota’s recall lookup page.

6. Is there a class action lawsuit for Toyota RAV4 defects?

Class action status changes regularly. Contact our attorneys for the most current information about potential class actions involving Toyota RAV4 vehicles.

7. What if I was injured before the recall was announced?

You may still qualify for compensation even if your injury occurred before the official recall announcement, especially if the manufacturer knew or should have known about the defect.

8. Can I still file a lawsuit if I’ve already received recall repairs?

Yes, receiving recall repairs does not prevent you from pursuing compensation for injuries that occurred due to the defect prior to repairs.

9. Will filing a lawsuit affect my vehicle warranty?

Filing a lawsuit against Toyota should not affect your vehicle warranty. Manufacturers cannot void warranties simply because you pursue legal action.

10. How much does it cost to hire an attorney for a Toyota RAV4 lawsuit?

At Schmidt & Clark, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront. We only receive payment if we win your case.

Take Action Now: Time-Sensitive Legal Claims

Time is limited to pursue legal action for injuries related to Toyota RAV4 defects. With statute of limitations restricting claims to only 1-3 years from the date of injury in most states, it’s crucial to act quickly.

Our firm offers:

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

See all related product liability lawsuits we’ve covered.

Do I Have a Toyota Rav4 Recall Lawsuit?

The Product Liability Litigation Group at Schmidt & Clark, LLP law firm is an experienced team of trial lawyers that focus on the representation of plaintiffs in Toyota Rav4 Recall Lawsuits. We are handling individual litigation nationwide and currently accepting new injury and death cases in all 50 states.

If you or a loved one has been injured by a recalled Toyota Rav4, you should contact our law firm immediately. You may be entitled to a settlement by filing a suit and we can help.

References:

[1] https://lemonlawexperts.com/toyota-rav4-liftgate-hinge-lawsuit/ 

[2] https://www.cbsnews.com/news/toyota-recall-rav4-suv-2023/