Over 500,000 vehicles have been the subject of a recent automotive recall by Kia due to s air bags that might not function in a crash. Hyundai, Kia’s fellow Korean auto manufacturer, has also had to recall a number of their vehicles for the same reason. All told, the total between Kia and Hyundai involves over 1.1 million vehicles linked to the air bag issues, Unfortunately, at least four fatalities have occurred, along with at least six injuries, due to the defective air bags.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration responded to problem reports in March of 2018. The specific vehicles subject to the recalls include 2010 to 2013 Kia Forte compact cars; 2011 to 2013 Kia Optima midsize cars, and 2011 to 2012 Kia Optima Hybrid and Sedona minivans. The affected cars for Hyundai include the 2011 to 2013 Hyundai Sonata midsize cars and the 2011 to 2012 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid cars. The air bag malfunctions are being worked on by both auto makers, and government documents have cited short circuits developing in air bag control computers made by parts supplier ZF-TRW. There are also investigations going as to whether other auto makers use the same or similar ZF-TRW air bag computers to determine whether additional recalls are needed.
If you or a loved one has been injured as a result of these defective air bags, or other automobile or product defects, do not hesitate to contact Inserra Kelley Sewell, Personal Injury Attorneys where our compassionate professionals can advise whether you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries.