Mercedes-Benz is recalling 1.29 million vehicles because of a failure in its eCall software, which may not provide the vehicle’s accurate location to emergency responders after a crash. According to a report on Verge.com, the recall covers a number of vehicles sold from model years 2016-2018.
Details of the Recall
The automaker has said it was unaware of any instances of property damage or personal injuries that have resulted from the issue, and that it plans to provide a free software update to be installed over the air or at dealerships. The recall will begin on April 6. Mercedes-Benz has said that a temporary collapse of the communication module’s power supply caused by a crash might lead to the vehicle’s position during a potential emergency call making it incorrect.
But, other functions of the automatic and manual emergency call function remain fully operational, the company said. Reuters reported that in 2019, Mercedes-Benz in Europe investigated an incident where the automatic eCall system provided an incorrect position for its vehicle. The company also found other situations where an incorrect vehicle position was relayed.
Why eCall is Important
So, how does eCall work? Once the emergency call is made, the Mercedes-Benz emergency response center checks whether help is needed at the scene of the accident. In the case of a serious accident, details such as GPS position, the direction of travel, time of the emergency call, and the preferred language, which is set in the Head Unit, will be forwarded to the emergency center.
This helps ensure that medical teams, rescue teams, or towing vehicles can be dispatched as soon as possible. When the eCall system is defective and fails to give the accurate location of the vehicle, it means that accident victims may not get the timely help they need. And in some cases, it may mean the difference between life and death.
Auto Product Liability Issues
If you or a loved one has been injured as the result of a defective auto – be it faulty design, defective software or a manufacturing defect – you may be able to seek compensation for damages such as medical expenses, lost income, hospitalization, cost of rehabilitation, pain and suffering and emotional distress. If you lose a loved one as the result of an auto defect, you may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit seeking compensation as well. An experienced auto defect lawyer will be able to advise you regarding your legal rights and options.
Source: https://www.theverge.com/2021/2/13/22282135/mercedes-recall-1-million-vehicles-emergency-call-location-error
