Automobile accidents are becoming more and more common due to the large number of vehicles on roadways across the U.S. Fortunately, vehicle safety has improved in many ways – the most obvious of which is that of seat belts.
The firsts regulation for wearing a seatbelt while traveling in the front seat of a passenger vehicle dates to 1983. Seat belt usage in back-seat children under the age of 14 become a law in 1989. In the state of Georgia, not wearing a seat belt can land you with a traffic ticket. Not only that, but failing to buckle up can lead to more serious injuries in the event of a crash.
Unfortunately, seat belts have been associated with numerous product defects and recalls in recent years. This may be due to stricter safety requirements and regulations, but regardless it is important to educate yourself on the most current recalls just in case they affect your vehicle.
Ford Motor Company recently announced a recall of approximately 680,000 vehicles because of a seat belt issue. Automobiles affected by this recall include 2015-2016 model year Ford Mondeo cars, 2013-2015 Lincoln MKZ vehicles, and 2013-2015 Ford Fusion passenger cars. The defect occurs when heat generated when deployment of belt pre-tensioners causes cables to break, which could lead to less protection to occupants in the event of a crash. Thus far, two injuries (from separate incidents) have been reported in relation to the defect. Ford is expected to notify vehicle owners that may be affected. Dealers should be able to correct the seatbelt defect issue beginning the week of January 16, 2017 at no charge.
Categories: Automobile Defects, Automobile Recall, Product Recall, Recalls, Seatbelt Safety
