WARNING: Do NOT Drive These Vehicles Until Repaired

On July 11, 2023, Dodge issued a “Do Not Drive” warning for 2003 Dodge Ram 1500 pickup trucks. This directive was issued after the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) confirmed another Takata rupture fatality. This directive comes several months after Honda and BMW issued the same “Do Not Drive” warning for vehicles equipped with certain Takata airbags. (Honda (2001 -2003) Accord, Civic, CR-V, Odyssey and Pilot and BMW (2000 -2006) 3 Series)

The problem is the airbag’s inflators in these vehicles. Specifically, the inflator is a metal cartridge loaded with propellant wafers, which in some cases ignite with explosive force. If the inflator housing ruptures in a crash, metal shards from the airbag can be sprayed throughout the passenger cabin—a potentially disastrous outcome from a supposedly lifesaving device. Environmental moisture, high temperatures, and age have been factors associated with this defect. To date, there have been 26 deaths and more than 400 injuries in the United States, due to this defect.

Moreover, it’s not just Honda, BMW and Dodge, vehicles made by 19 different automakers, encompassing 34 brands have been recalled. NHTSA has called the Takata airbag recall the “largest and most complex safety recall in U.S. history.” Of the 67 million recalls, at the end of 2022, 11 million vehicles airbags were not yet replaced. Those models under recall are listed here.

If you want to know if you vehicle is under any type of recall notice or has a safety issue that needs to be addressed, NHTSA has a site located here that can help you.

At Drake, Hileman & Davis, our personal injury attorneys have been concerned for the safety of those in our community for more than 35 years. We have been helping the injured find answers, whenever accidents happen. We have a proven track record of results and satisfied clients. We’re ready to answer your questions and provide you with the legal help you need. Contact us on-line or call us at 1-888-777-7098 to schedule your free consultation in the convenience of your home or at one of our five offices located throughout the region.