When vehicles are recalled due to defects, the consumer public often loses trust in that vehicle's ability to keep passengers, motorists and pedestrians safe. In some instances, however, the vehicle manufacturer doesn't face much retribution following an auto recall.
For example, since 2012 when the 2013 Ford Escape first went on the market, it has faced seven recalls due to auto defects. Yet, sources point to that Ford market shares have increased, indicating that consumers aren't as concerned with the recalls as one would expect.
Of the seven recalls, five were associated with fires that were said to occur spontaneously. All of the recalls were preventative and not reportedly related to any major injuries. Sources believe that Ford's ability to strike before major damage transpired is a redeeming quality, even if over 160,000 vehicles had to be pulled.
Additionally, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that the rate of death by car has declined significantly in the last 50 years; however, last year alone over 33,000 lost their lives due to car-related accidents.
What this information may suggest, coupled with consumer comfort, is that motorists are putting their trust in vehicle manufacturers to take care of an auto defect before it becomes an issue. Certainly vehicle safety regulations have improved over the years, but consumers should still be aware of the danger of operating a vehicle that is known to be rife with problems.
Individuals who have been injured as a result of a car defect should seek the guidance of a products liability attorney on how to request compensation for damages.
Source: Bloomberg, "Ford Recall Is a Strength, Not a Weakness," Matthew C. Klein, Nov. 27, 2013