New Jersey Personal Injury Blog

General Motors Recalls 4,678 Vehicles for Windshield Wiper Flaw Posing Visibility Hazard

A National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) vehicle recall announcement reported that General Motors LLC is recalling approximately 4,674 vehicles due to a flaw in windshield wipers that could lead to visibility hazards, which can increase the risk of having an accident. Included in the recall are certain 2011 model year Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon vehicles manufactured between September 22, 2010 and November 5, 2010.

Some of the vehicles included in the recall have windshield wiper motor crank arm nuts that may not be tightened to the degree that is required for safe and effective operation. If there is an accumulation of snow or ice, and the wipers are used, or, if the wipers are used on a dry windshield, the nut could become loose. If the nut loosens significantly, the wipers could fail to operate, thereby limiting motorists’ visibility and increasing the risk of a collision.

Auto dealers are expected to properly tighten the wiper motor crank arm nut at no cost to the consumer. Owners of recalled vehicles can contact Chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438, GMC at 1-866-996-9463, or visit http://www.gmownercenter.com.

Car manufacturers are responsible for designing and creating vehicles that do not contain defects or lack certain crashworthiness components. However, defective vehicles often make their way into the marketplace. While vehicle safety recalls are important so that drivers are aware of potential dangers posed by auto defects, accidents that may cause injury or even death could take place before an auto manufacturer launches a recall or sufficiently warns the general public of the hazard.

Individuals who are injured and family members of those injured or killed in New Jersey motor vehicle accidents that are believed to have been caused by an automotive product defect may have certain legal rights. A New Jersey car defect lawyer at Blume Goldfaden can evaluate the specific facts of your potential claim to determine whether or not the claim is meritorious. To learn more about your rights, call us at 973-635-5400.