Hawaii Files Lawsuit Against Takata- Claims Covered Up Airbag Defects

The state of Hawaii filed a lawsuit against Japanese automotive parts company Takata in Hawaii’s First Circuit Court because of its faulty airbags. The state is demanding a $10,000 penalty for every affected vehicle owner in Hawaii.

Steve Levins, Hawaii’s director of consumer protection, said the lawsuit is “seeking that consumers be compensated for any losses associated with this incident, whether that’s alternative transportation costs, or a diminished value of their vehicle.” In the United States, there have been at least 10 fatalities linked to the airbag defect, which can cause pressure to build up and break the steel interiors of the airbags, causing metal debris to fly into the vehicle’s cabin. More than 100 individuals have sustained injuries due to the defect.

The attorneys at Hach & Rose, LLP in New York handle personal injury and product liability cases such as the one forced on vehicle owners by Takata. Companies should be held accountable when their negligence causes harm to consumers. If you have been the victim of a defective product, call our offices at (212) 779-0057 to discuss your situation and legal options.