Recalled Vehicles in the News: What You Need to Know

A recent recall by General Motors has prompted many consumers to revisit websites and manufacturing details that provide more information about their own cars. In the GM recall, it was said that the ignition switch column could become overloaded with weight from keys or a jolt of movement that could cause the mechanism to disengage. The specific cars affected by the recall went from a short list to a more comprehensive one which includes the following: Chevrolet Cobalt, Chevrolet HHR, Pontiac Solstice, Pontiac G5 Saturn Sky, and Saturn Ion.

Vehicle recalls have happened over the years involving other manufacturers. How do you know if your car has been issued a recall, and what can you do to ensure you purchase the best vehicle there is?

Consumer Reports magazine regularly features recalled updates regarding all types of consumer products. Subscribing to this magazine will keep you on the cusp of breaking news. The Consumer Product Safety Commission also offers a newsfeed to which you can subscribe for alerts and information about consumer products, recalls and safety. Staying informed is a great way to make sure that your needs are taken care of immediately when it comes to a recalled product or issue that might affect something you purchased. Generally, in the case of vehicle recalls especially, the manufacturer will issue a letter to you stating the problem and offering to service your car or take care of the issue without any expense to you. Be sure to pay attention to any items that arrive in the mail that come from the manufacturer or dealership of your vehicle.

Unfortunately, many consumers find out about recalls when it is too late or the manufacturers fails to alert consumers about the issue at all. In the case of the recent General Motors recall, initial reports indicated the manufacturers knew of the problem as early as 2001, yet did not issue a recall or amend the problem until recently. Serious injuries have resulted from poor vehicle manufacturing, and many lawsuits have been filed on these bigger entities.

If you or someone you know has been injured or died as a result of a vehicle recall where the vehicle failed to perform up to normal standards before or after the recall, your New York attorney will assist you when dealing with all the entities involved. No situation can ever replace the loss of a loved one, and doing what you must do to find closure will help you move forward.