Audi is recalling almost 95,000 Q7 SUVs because the pillar located behind the rear door opening may not have sufficient interior padding to protect an occupant’s head during a car accident. According to Consumer Reports, an unbelted passenger in certain vehicles may be at an increased risk of head injury if their head strikes a rear pillar known as the C-pillar during a crash.
Details of the Recall
Documents posted on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) website say that the vehicle’s curtain airbags would “adequately protect” passengers in such a case, but still initiated the recall out of an “abundance of caution.” An Audi spokesperson told Consumer Reports that the problem was discovered during routine compliance testing in which automakers and suppliers subject vehicle components to inspections to ensure they meet federal safety standards during production.
In this case, the interior padding on the C-pillar failed to meet those standards during a compliance test conducted in April. Audi said in documents provided to NHTSA that interior padding manufactured after April 2020 meets federal safety standards and that the supplier that manufactured the faulty part has improved production monitoring processes and quality to prevent similar problems in the future.
Vehicles recalled include Audi Q7 SUVs (2018 through 2020 models) manufactured between July 24, 2017, and March 5, 2020. When the recall begins in December, Audi will replace the faulty parts with improved ones free of charge. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 800-253-2834.
Auto Product Liability Issues
Head injuries in car accidents may range from a concussion to severe traumatic brain injuries such as skull fractures and bleeding in the brain. Some head injuries may require surgery and extensive rehabilitation; in some cases, the victims may never recover completely. Brain injuries often leave individuals with permanent or even lifelong disabilities.
Suppose you or a loved one has suffered a head injury due to a defective auto. In that case, you may be able to seek compensation for damages such as medical expenses, lost income, hospitalization, cost of rehabilitation, permanent injuries, disabilities, pain and suffering and emotional distress. An experienced auto defect lawyer will be able to help you better understand your legal rights and options.
Source: https://www.consumerreports.org/car-recalls-defects/audi-recalls-q7-suvs-for-head-injury-risk/
