Every year, 30 to 50 million cars are recalled. If you’ve purchased a used vehicle or missed a manufacturer’s recall notice, you could be putting yourself in serious danger every time you start the engine.

It’s extremely important to be aware of potential recalls, and respond appropriately. If you’re injured in a collision as a result of a recalled vehicle, call the Law Offices of Tim Misny right away. Our personal injury attorneys can help you explore your legal options, even if you missed a recall notice.

How to find out if your vehicle has been recalled

It’s easy for recall notices to get lost in the mail, or even sent to the vehicle’s original owner. Checking for recalls every month or so is a smart way to stay on top of the issue. The National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has created a website to streamline the recall check process.

In order to check your vehicle, you’ll need the vehicle identification number (VIN). This is a 17-digit number that can usually be found on the driver’s side door and the bottom driver’s side corner of your windshield. It is also on your registration form and auto insurance card. Simply input the VIN into the website, and you’ll find out whether any parts have been recalled.

You should find out which parts or equipment need to be serviced, how many, the reason for the recall, your options to fix the problem and a schedule for repair, replacement and/or refund.

Next steps

Vehicle manufacturers are legally obligated to either repair the defect at no cost, replace the vehicle if the problem can’t be resolved or refund the purchase price, factoring in depreciation.

Next, you’ll need to locate a dealership with an authorized service department. Once you’ve located a dealership who can perform the necessary repairs, take your car in as soon as possible. Do not delay—health and safety recalls are serious, even if the issue seems minor. The last thing you want to do is get into a collision due to a defective vehicle.

Once the repairs are finished, you’re free to drive your car once more.

If you’ve been in a car accident, and later find out that it was caused by a defective vehicle or part, you may be eligible for compensation. The Law Offices of Tim Misny would be happy to review your claim and fight for the damages you deserve. Call us today to get started.

Talk with an Ohio personal injury lawyer today

Recalled vehicle caused your car crash? I’ll Make Them Pay!® Call my office at 877-614-9524

so that I can evaluate your case right away. We’ll work to hold the manufacturers or negligent drivers responsible.

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