Month: January 2019

The National Highway Traffic Safety Association has been informed by automaker Kia that there is a potential steering problem in some of its vehicles. A recall has been issued, but only for vehicles sold or registered in specific states. Texas is not one of the states named; however, local vehicles may still be affected.

Typically, a recall of this type is issued nationwide instead of by geographical region. In this case, however, the recalls due to possible rust and breakage of the control arm are thought to affect only those that are driven in states where rust might be a problem. Consumer groups have expressed concerns about such geographic recalls as it could leave some affected vehicles out of the notifications process. A van sold in Missouri, one of the recall states, to someone living in Ft. Worth, for example, could still have trouble with the steering problem. The new owner wouldn’t necessarily receive notice as they are outside of the geographic recall area.

The recall involves Kia Sedona vans from model year 2006 through 2012. About 80,000 vehicles are affected. The control arm, if rusted, could break and the driver would lose steering capabilities. Though no injuries have been reported so far, many owners have notified the NHTSA that their vehicles suddenly went out of control. By issuing a specific recall affecting only limited states, the manufacturer could save money.

In the case of a car accident that involves a potentially recalled vehicle, an attorney may be able to help with the details. Fighting a large auto manufacturer for damages can be intimidating. Having someone in your corner could make the difference between being properly compensated and losing a case.

Texas drivers may be interested to learn that, according to a report released on Nov. 14, the number of fatalities caused by car accidents increased in 2012. This is the first time the number of fatalities has increased in the last seven years. Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration revealed 33,561 fatalities in 2012, a 3.3 percent increase, or 91.1 fatalities per day.

When the numbers were analyzed, it was discovered that motorcyclists, bicyclists and pedestrians made up the brunt of the increase in the number of fatalities. Motorcycle fatalities increased by 7.1 percent and accounted for 15 percent of all fatalities. Bicycle fatalities increased to 6.5 percent while pedestrian fatalities increased by 6.4 percent. A senior associate at The National Center for Biking and Walking stated that, while the technology that helps keep motorists safe when an accident occurs is continuously becoming more advanced, those who are not protected by the steel cage of a vehicle do not have the same luxury.

While the number of fatalities increased nationally, 13 states had reductions in the number of overall fatalities, and 18 states had reductions in the number of fatalities caused by drunk driving. In addition, the number of fatalities for teen drivers also decreased 3.9 percent for 10-to-15-year-olds and 5.7 percent for 16-to-20-year-olds.

In Texas, those who become involved in a car accident may face severe physical and emotional trauma that could impact the rest of their lives. However, those who are injured may be eligible to seek compensation for their injuries and other associated damages by filing a personal injury lawsuit. A personal injury attorney may be able to help those who have suffered in an accident obtain fair compensation from insurance companies and the parties responsible.