Click here to get this post in PDF
Over the past few years, cars with defective airbags, ignition systems, and other components have been the subject of several recalls. However, how well-versed are you in the phenomenon of “silent recalls” of defective goods?
Don’t worry about a silent recall if you’ve never heard of a silent memory. Quiet remembrances have just lately been discovered by the Safety Institute.
For example, manufacturers can avoid government agencies’ authorised recall processes by directly proposing to consumers safety fixes or a new platform to remedy a safety issue.
A “hidden warranty” or “customer satisfaction campaign” is a term used to describe the practice of evading authorities. According to Automotive News, this is a common manoeuvre.
In many cases, a “technical service bulletin” (TSB) is given to car dealers to inform them of a safety defect in a vehicle and the corrective procedures to be taken, according to an Atlanta product liability lawyer. A specific vehicle model may produce dozens of service bulletins throughout its lifespan. Minor issues are the subject of some of the publications that are issued. However, these advisories can also pose significant safety concerns.
As a result of “silent recalls,” most consumers are unaware of potentially fatal flaws in their products.
Example Of The A Silent Recall, An Atv Flaw
According to a dealer who contacted the saferproducts.gov website of the Product Safety Commission to report the incident, an unprotected exhaust pipe on an ATV caught fire after the vehicle had been used and then parked. According to the dealer, the lack of shielding on the exhaust caused the back floor panels of the ATV to melt, fall, and catch fire while they were losing.
In response to the problem, Hisun Motors dispatched the dealer with a repair kit for the exhaust system. According to the statement made by the manufacturer, new variations of ATV models would also be produced. In addition, the company reported that repair kits were currently being distributed to various other retailers. On the other hand, the corporation has given the impression that a recall will not be issued.
What would have transpired if the dealer had not yet complained? When would it have been possible for the ATV owner’s vehicle to have received a free repair? What happens if customers don’t contact the manufacturer when there’s a problem with the goods they bought?
Most importantly, what happens to people who have suffered severe injuries due to faulty products due to problems with the manufacturer but have not made their experiences public?
Manufacturers, importers, distributors, and retailers of consumer goods are required to immediately notify the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) when they discover that one of their products does not meet safety standards or has another flaw that could result in a significant risk to consumers or an unreasonable threat of severe injury or death. This obligation is mandated by Section 15 of the Product Safety Act, which governs the product safety laws in the United States.
Take action if you’ve been injured by ‘silent recalls’
You can safeguard yourself by following the manufacturer’s technical service bulletins. Using SaferCar.gov, you can enter the vehicle’s year, make, and model. A “one-stop-shop” for recall of consumer goods controlled by six federal agencies can also be accessed at Recalls.
As an injured victim of a faulty product, an attorney from our firm can help. To find out more, call or fill out an online form. Medical bills and other damages may be covered by a liability lawsuit you file on your behalf.
You may also like: Class Action Lawsuits That May Apply To You
Image source: Shutterstock.com
