GM recalls over 40,000 vehicles due to air bag issue

The driver’s airbag inflator may burst during deployment, according to General Motors GM.N, which announced on Monday that it will recall 42,000 sport utility vehicles in Canada from the 2014 through 2017 model years.

In the United States, GM issued a recall on Friday for 994,763 Buick Enclave, Chevrolet Traverse, and GMC Acadia vehicles from the 2014 to 2017 model years that included modules made by ARC Automotive Inc. If the vehicles in additional markets will be recalled, GM did not immediately respond.

deployed airbag

The driver’s airbag module will be changed by dealers in the United States and Canada. The 67 million ARC inflators manufactured during an 18-year period are subject to a recall order from the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), which the business is rebuffing.

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Following an incident in Michigan in March that left a motorist with face injuries that were later identified as a rupture, GM issued a recall.

Injuries Caused by Airbags

While airbags are designed to provide protection during crashes, they can also cause injuries, particularly when they deploy with excessive force or in certain scenarios. It is important to note that the risk of injury from airbags is significantly lower than the risk of injury without them.

Common airbag-related injuries include abrasions, contusions, fractures, burns, and, in rare cases, more severe injuries such as concussions or internal injuries. However, advancements in airbag technology, such as the development of advanced frontal airbags with sensors and adaptive deployment, have aimed to reduce the occurrence and severity of airbag-induced injuries.

It’s worth noting that the specific number of injuries caused by airbags each year is challenging to determine accurately due to underreporting, variations in reporting standards, and the absence of a centralized database. Additionally, the overall rate of airbag-related injuries has decreased over the years as safety standards and technology have improved.

Safety Recommendations: To minimize the risk of airbag-related injuries, it is crucial for motorists to follow safety guidelines and practice responsible driving habits. Here are some key recommendations:

  1. Always wear seat belts properly: Seat belts and airbags work together to provide the highest level of protection. Ensure that seat belts are worn correctly, with the lap belt low on the hips and the shoulder belt crossing the chest and resting on the shoulder.
  2. Maintain an appropriate seating position: Adjust your seat and steering wheel to ensure a safe and comfortable driving position. Sit at least 10 inches away from the steering wheel to minimize the risk of airbag-related injuries.
  3. Secure children in appropriate restraints: Follow child safety seat guidelines and ensure that children are correctly restrained in age-appropriate car seats or booster seats. Children under the age of 13 should always ride in the back seat.
  4. Do not tamper with airbag systems: Avoid modifying or tampering with airbag components or systems. Alterations can compromise their effectiveness and increase the risk of injury.
  5. Stay informed and follow vehicle manufacturer instructions: Familiarize yourself with your vehicle’s safety features, including airbags, by reading the owner’s manual. Stay informed about any recalls or safety-related updates from the manufacturer.

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