Has your vehicle been recalled for any reason? Whether it is due to defective parts or other mechanical errors, there is a chance that you could get into an accident with your vehicle due to the defect before you have an opportunity to take advantage of the recall. The following are some things to know about recalls and what you need to do:  

Have the Car Inspected as Soon as Possible

As soon as you become aware that there is a recall on your vehicle, it's important you take the time to get it inspected at your car dealership or at a mechanic's shop to have it repaired. Depending on the nature of the recall, you may be without your car for a period of time, particularly if there is an extensive engine malfunction or if certain parts have to be ordered. It may be possible to get a rental car in the meantime, but this can vary. Call your dealership or insurance agent to find out about this.

Keep Up With Recalls

While most people are notified about a recall via mail or other means of communication, not everyone gets the word about a recall in person. If you purchased your vehicle privately from another person, for instance, you may not get any correspondence from the manufacturer. To keep up with recalls and other information, make sure you are connected to the manufacturer in some way. Sign up for their email list or follow them on social media. You should also pay attention to the news, as safety recalls are typically well reported if it affects a substantial amount of car owners.

Dealing With an Accident Related to a Recall

If you get into an accident that is related to a recall, there are many things you need to do. After you have dealt with any medical issues you may have sustained, you need to contact the manufacturer of the vehicle to let them know an accident happened. You should also call a car accident attorney at this time. If damage was caused to someone else due to the recall on your car, you will need to divert it to the manufacturer of your vehicle. Your lawyer will have to provide proof that a recall-related malfunction was responsible for the damage, such as a report from a dealership or your mechanic.

Having a recall on your vehicle can be frustrating and may come at a time that is not convenient for you, but it is very important that you take care of it as soon as you can. Not doing so can result in a major accident in which yourself or someone else could become badly hurt. If you do get into an accident and the manufacturer can prove that you failed to service your car after a recall was issued, you may be responsible for some or all of the damages related to it.

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