BMW Issues Recall for Car Doors Flying Open
BMW has long been a top brand in the automotive industry and has lived up to its motto as “the ultimate driving machine.” Although BMWs usually feature superb craftsmanship and attention to detail, they may still be vulnerable to design and construction flaws. Recently, BMW issued a recall for more than 45,000 of its 7 Series cars sold in the United States because of a previously unknown but potentially deadly defect: The doors may open unexpectedly while the vehicle is in motion.
The recall applies to several models from 2005 through 2008, including the 745i, 745Li, 750i, 750Li, 760i, 760Li, and B7. These models feature the soft door close and comfort access options, believed to be the source of the defect. According to BMW’s statement regarding the recall, road debris or occupant contact with the door can cause it to suddenly open, creating a serious risk of ejection or accident due to distraction.
Understanding Product Liability
Product manufacturers, including car manufacturers, have a legal obligation to ensure their products pose no undue threat to consumers through regular, intended use of the products. For this reason, consumers have the right to retain a defective products attorney to fight on their behalf. Manufacturers must ensure their products are safe, effective, and perform as advertised. Failing this, manufacturers or any other entity involved in a defective product’s supply chain could be liable for consumer injury or damages caused by the defective product.
Product manufacturers generally acknowledge three types of defects:
- Defective design. This describes any flaw in the design of the product that affects all units. Companies who identify these types of defects usually halt production of new units, recall affected units, and then investigate the issue before resuming production.
- Defective production. This describes faulty materials or improper assembly that caused the product to arrive to the end user in a defective state. Defects of this nature may affect only a few units or entire lots, and the manufacturer will recall the affected products to correct the problem.
- Defective marketing. This describes anytime marketing materials are disseminated to the public that did not accurately or faithfully represent a product. In simple terms, this type of defect applies to any product that fails to perform as advertised or meet promises made by the manufacturer concerning the product’s performance in advertisements.
It’s important to remember that in most cases, companies react swiftly to prevent defective products from harming consumers once they identify a defect in a product. However, some companies choose to weigh the cost of potential lawsuits against the known costs of a recall and choose the least expensive option. Thanks to strict liability laws, consumers who suffer injuries from faulty or defective products don’t need to prove a manufacturer was negligent to secure compensation – they only have to prove the product in question is defective, and it caused actual harm or damage.
What Do I Do About My BMW?
If you happen to own a BMW that has been recalled, it’s important to reach out to BMW’s customer service department as soon as possible to discuss your options. Most automobile manufacturers who issue recalls provide free or discounted repairs to address the problem for their customers. You must speak to BMW to determine your options.
When it comes to product liability laws, it’s vital for California citizens to understand their legal options for recourse against defective product manufacturers. In many cases, a defect can affect many people before the manufacturer is notified, so it’s important to act as quickly as possible if you believe you’ve suffered an injury or other damages due to a defective product. The sooner you act and contact the company about the problem, the sooner they will realize they must issue a recall, and the sooner you can start building a case for securing compensation for your losses, if necessary.