The New Jersey seat belt defect attorneys of Blume Forte recently learned that Toyota Motor Corporation and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) issued a recall for a total of 342,451 vehicles that feature Tacoma Access Cabs. Reports from Toyota indicate that problems with the seat belt assembly can put occupants in danger during a crash.
Investigations from Toyota have found that repeatedly closing the access doors forcefully on Toyota Tacoma cabs from model years 2005 through 2011 can cause screws in the seat belt pre-tensioner to loosen. These screws attach the pre-tensioner to the seat belt retractor. The retractor spring cover could detach from the retractor if the screws loosen completely and the seat belt could fail to work properly in a crash, creating a risk of injury during an accident.
Toyota will notify owners of the recall and have dealers inspect seat belt assemblies free of charge. If the assembly is found to be in need of service, dealers will install new pre-tensioner screws. These screws will have a thread-locking sealant and a retractor spring cover with stopper ribs that will also be installed.
To learn more about the recall, call Toyota at (800) 331-4331 or the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at (888) 327-4236.
In the event of a motor vehicle accident causing injuries due to a defective seat belt or any automotive product, injured occupants and their families have the right to seek compensation for their injuries and associated losses. To learn more about your rights and potential legal options through a no-cost consultation, call Blume Forte today at 973-845-4421.