Nissan Recalls Over 220,000 Vehicle Because of Defective Hood Latch
The idea of traveling down the freeway blindfolded is unimaginable, but a new vehicle recall by Nissan involves a defect that can have a similar impact on driving ability. Nissan has just announced a new vehicle recall that includes more than 220,000 Nissan Altimas manufactured in 2013. The defect that prompted the recall involves a faulty secondary hood latch that can allow the hood of affected vehicles to spring open, which can maked it impossible for the driver to see the roadway through the windshield. While some types of defects can theoretically increase the risk of a car accident, this type of defect presents a particularly significant danger for both the vehicle owners and everyone else on the roadway.
While the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NTHSA) has only confirmed a single accident related to the defective hood switch, there have been other reports of the latch failing and allowing vehicle hoods to open while vehicles are in motion. The fact that only a single accident has been reported is surprising given that drivers essentially are blind when the incident occurs. Given the severity of the risk of trying to drive with the hood of a car open, U.S. safety regulators are recommending that vehicle owners have the issue repaired by the dealer. Dealers will fix the problem free of charge. The repair involves modification of the hood lever bend angle, as well as lubricating and cleaning the latch.
The faulty secondary latch can reportedly fail because of interference between the inner panel of the hood and the secondary latch lever. When this interference is combined with corrosion or debris, the secondary latch can bind and fail to engage when the hood is closed. If the primary latch is not engaged, the secondary latch can fail, allowing the hood to fly open while a driver is behind the wheel.
Although the majority of car accidents are caused by some form of motorist error, such as a traffic violation or other unsafe driving practice, vehicle defects also can cause motor vehicle accidents. If a vehicle defect constitutes a substantial factor in causing a car accident, the manufacturer of the vehicle or defective component might be liable for resulting injuries or fatalities. Personal injuries claims based on vehicle defects can be complex and require the use of industry experts. Our Atlanta auto accident lawyers have established a network of respected experts we use in such cases.
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If you or a family member has been injured in a car accident that might have been caused by a vehicle defect, contact us for a free consultation to discuss your rights to financial compensation for your injuries. Our accident attorneys at Montlick and Associates have been representing those who suffer serious injuries throughout all of Georgia and the Southeast for over thirty years, including but not limited to Albany, Athens, Atlanta, Augusta, Columbus, Gainesville, Macon, Marietta, Rome, Roswell, Savannah, Smyrna, Valdosta, Warner Robins and all smaller cities and rural areas in the state. No matter where you are located our attorneys are just a phone call away, and we will even come to you. Call us 24 hours a day/7 days a week for your Free Consultation at 1-800-LAW-NEED (1-800-529-6333). You can also visit us online at www.montlick.com and use our Free Case Evaluation Form or 24-hour Live Online Chat.
Sources:
http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/10/10/us-nissan-recall-altima-idUSKCN0HZ1CR20141010