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Recalled Cars Still Find Their Way To Drivers

In what is being considered a bombshell report, the US Public Interest Research Group has detailed what they argue is a consistent pattern of seemingly dangerous business practices by AutoNation, one of the country’s largest domestic used car sellers.

As part of their study, the PIRG evaluated 2,429 vehicles being sold by AutoNation. These vehicles were sourced from 12 different states and 28 unique AutoNation dealerships. The time in which the study was run was also limited to the months of July and August, 2019. From this particular sample pool, the PIRG discovered 285 individual safety recalls which had not been addressed by the prior owner of the vehicle or AutoNation itself. From this data, PIRG derived that nearly one out of 9 vehicles sold through AutoNation will likely have some recall in effect.

These problems can range in severity. For example, the vehicles studied as part of the survey included problems ranging from airbag deployment issues to defective ignition switches. In many situations, the issues discovered in these vehicles could actually prove to be life threatening.

Evaluating Current Laws

While it may seem that the policy of selling used cars with active, unresolved recalls is controversial, it is currently not illegal. According to federal laws, auto dealers are only prohibited from selling new vehicles with active recalls, not used cars. While legislation has been introduced to eliminate the loophole which allows used car dealers like AutoZone to sell automobiles with active recalls, new laws have yet to be passed. That being said, states do have the ability to pass their own consumer protection laws as needed in order to provide some level of defense against this serious problem.

Protecting Yourself During the Car Buying Process

If you are buying a used car from AutoZone or any other car dealer, you can use the VIN number on the car to check for active recalls online. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website provides users with a quick and easy method for checking for recalls.

Once you have the VIN number of the car in question, simply input this information into the online form field. You can quickly review any information concerning active recalls and determine whether or not purchasing this car is actually in your best interest. Because used car dealers are under no obligation to inform you of these recalls, it will ultimately be up to you to make sure you are protected as much as possible.

Personal Injury Attorneys in Palm Springs

Our firm has been handling personal injury cases throughout the California Low Desert and High Desert communities for over 30 years. With a 95% success rate, the California personal injury attorneys at Walter Clark Legal Group will fight to hold those responsible for your loss accountable and win compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you have been injured in an auto accident and want to discuss your legal options, contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer. We have offices in Indio, Rancho Mirage, Victorville, and Yucca Valley and represent clients through the entire California Low Desert and High Desert communities.

DISCLAIMER: The Walter Clark Legal Group blog is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended as legal or medical advice. References to laws are based on general legal practices and vary by location. Information reported comes from secondary news sources. We do handle these types of cases, but whether or not the individuals and/or loved ones involved in these accidents choose to be represented by a law firm is a personal choice we respect. Should you find any of the information incorrect, we welcome you to contact us with corrections.

 

 

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