When buying a used car through a dealership, many people assume that it’s a safer option than going through the car’s previous owner. After all, a dealer has to inspect the vehicle and ensure that it’s safe to drive, right?
Not exactly. Because of a recent law change last year, Pennsylvania used car dealers are actually allowed to sell cars even when they’ve been recalled for serious safety hazards. These cars are for sale right now, and some buyers aren’t even aware of the risk they’re taking.
Serious Recalls, Significant Risks
Manufacturers can recall cars for different reasons, and some of them are more serious than others. One of the most significant recalls currently underway involves Takata airbags, which have been known to explode when deployed, showering passengers with high-speed shrapnel. More than 20 people have died because of injuries sustained from these airbag explosions.
Other current vehicle recalls include:
- Seat belt components that can cause fires after a crash
- Faulty steering wheels that can loosen and detach
- Engines that stall under various circumstances
- Faulty transmissions that prevent vehicles from entering “park”
These are only a handful of vehicle recalls underway in the US, but there are many more. Unfortunately, Pennsylvania law currently allows dealers to sell these cars to unsuspecting buyers. Moreover, it may even shield them from legal liability, depending on the circumstances.
What Should An Injured Person Do?
If one of these recalled vehicles injured you, you have several options. If the dealer did not give you the required recall disclosures when you purchased the vehicle, some liability may still lie with them. You may also be able to pursue a product liability claim against the car manufacturer. An experienced attorney will be your best resource for determining the path forward.