In the past year and half, Japanese auto parts manufacturer Takata Corporation has faced scrutiny for defective airbags that can rupture on deployment. During that time, Takata recalled millions of U.S. vehicles over concerns that the faulty airbags were associated with several deaths and numerous injuries worldwide - though the company never admitted that the airbags were inherently faulty.

That all changed on Tuesday May 19th, 2015 when Takata admitted its airbags were defective and agreed to expand its recall of U.S. vehicles to nearly 34 million. Here are a few details about the recall:

• The recall includes 33.8 million U.S. cars and trucks from a variety of automakers - that equates to 1 in 7 of the over 250 million vehicles on U.S. roads.
• Takata has stated that the defect is caused by faulty inflator mechanisms that can make airbags explode when deployed, sending shrapnel flying at vehicle passengers. 6 deaths and over 100 injuries have been linked to the defective airbags.
• Affected vehicle makers include Honda, BMW, Chrysler, Ford, Mazda, General Motors, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Saab, Subaru, and Toyota. You can search online here using your vehicle’s VIN number to see if your vehicle is affected.
• Individuals with recalled vehicles can take them into dealers who will replace the airbags for free as long as parts are available.

Takata’s recall is unprecedented, and it speaks volumes about the dangers of defective products. Under product liability laws, manufacturers are required to ensure their products are safe for public use. When a defective product causes harm, victims and families have the right to pursue compensation for their damages by filing lawsuits.

At The Daspit Law Firm, our attorneys have extensive experience protecting the rights of victims injured by unsafe and defective products. If you have questions about product liability, defective airbags, and how our firm can help you with your unique case, contact us for a free consultation.