Imagine you are driving down the freeway. You could be on your way to work or heading to see family and friends. All of a sudden, the sunroof above you starts to crack and eventually shatters; sending shards of glass raining down on your head.
While this scary and spontaneous event may not happen to you tomorrow, the number of shattering sunroofs has prompted a federal investigation. According to an ABC News.com report, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has launched an investigation into whether certain vehicles or styles of sunroofs are defective.
It appears that the NHTSA will focus its inquiry on Kia Sorrento models. The SUV made by the Korean automaker has reportedly had complaints from owners about the vehicle’s panoramic sunroof. Overall, the NHTSA has received about 400 complaints that encompass all makes and models of vehicles that have sunroofs.
As of this reporting, there have been no major injuries or deaths stemming from compromised sunroofs. Nevertheless, depending on the investigation, a recall could be issued to replace or adjust the glass on a sunroof.
Should this scenario occur, automakers would have a duty to inform consumers of the recall and honor requests for repairs. This is because automakers have a continuing duty to ensure that consumers are safe from harms that could put them in danger. If an automaker fails to do so, and a consumer is injured because of the unchecked defect, the automaker could be held liable.
If you have questions about automotive defects and injuries, an experienced personal injury attorney can help.