The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched an investigation into faulty airbag sensors equipped in certain Subaru Forester vehicles resulting in a voluntary recall affecting the popular crossover SUVs.

Details of the Subaru Forester Airbag Recall

According to CNET, the defect is traced back to a defective airbag sensor equipped in Subaru Forester with heated seats. Recall documents suggest an electrical connection within the seats could become loose overtime, possibly preventing occupant detection and deactivating the passenger airbag.

If airbags fail to deploy in the event of a collision, there is a significant increase for risk of injury.

Subaru says that it is not aware of any injuries related to the defect, but does warn owners to watch for an airbag warning light signifying that a problem has occurred. A indicator reading “passenger airbag off” will also illuminate when the defect occurs.

The recall currently covers 366,282 Subaru Foresters from the 2015-2018 model years.

Owners will be able to take affected Foresters to the dealer where a technician will inspect the sensor mat harness. If a problem is observed, Subaru will install a new one for free.

Common Injuries Associated with Airbag Failures

Injuries caused by a defective airbag include:

• Cuts and lacerations
• Fractures and broken bones
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Neck and spinal cord injuries
• Hearing loss
• Blindness
• Death

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 576 people were killed in automobile crashes where a front airbag did not deploy between 2001 and 2006. Of these victims, 360 would have benefited from frontal airbag protection.

Contact an Experienced Defective Airbag Injury Attorney

If you or a loved one suffered an injury due to a defective or faulty airbag, contact Thomas J. Henry. Our experienced vehicle recall lawyers are available 24/7, nights and weekends to provide you with a free case review. If an airbag or vehicle manufacturer’s negligence caused your airbag injury, you may be entitled to recover damages to cover medical costs, pain and suffering, and lost wages.

Our firm has offices in Corpus Christi, San Antonio, and Houston, serving clients across Texas and nationwide. Contact us today for a free legal consultation.