NHTSA Launches New Website Feature for Critically Important Safety Recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recently issued a press release about a new website feature that can help to identify vehicles with a  “do not drive” status or those vehicles currently under recall due to a fire risk. In a lot of cases, it’s okay to continue driving your car while you wait for your recall appointment, but in some cases, that could be a very dangerous or deadly gamble.  

New Feature on VIN Lookup Tool  

While all recalls need to be addressed and repaired swiftly, some recalls require special precautions from vehicle owners before they’re fixed. To get important information out to the consumers who need it most, the NHTSA has just added a new tool to their website. If you’re using the VIN Lookup Tool and your vehicle has a “do not drive” advisory or a fire risk, a red box will display at the top of the page.  

This additional feature is to help alert vehicle owners to the urgency and danger of the situation. It may seem like a hassle to have to schedule a repair, and you don’t want to lose your transportation until then, but it can be critically important to stay out of the vehicle if it has a “do not drive” warning. In addition to the warning, the website will also give vehicle owners the information they need to take preventative action until the recall is repaired. In some cases, that may mean parking it outside and away from buildings and structures.  

Recalls Are Issued When Consumer Safety is at Risk  

Recalls are only initiated because consumer safety is on the line. It can take weeks, months or longer for investigations to be conducted and for recalls to get initiated. If your vehicle is under recall, it’s because there is a real risk to your safety. Take recalls seriously. Make sure to follow all the directions on the website, and check your vehicle for open recalls at least twice a year.  

If you have been injured or if you have lost a loved one in a car accident caused by a dangerous or defective car part in San Diego or anywhere in Southern California, contact the skilled and proven team at Harris Personal Injury Lawyers, Inc. at 1.800.GO.HARRIS for a free case consultation today.