According to news sources, a bill proposing the strengthening of fines for delaying car recalls is about to be considered by the Senate Commerce Committee tomorrow and is reportedly facing stiff opposition from automakers.
The main point of contention in the Motor Vehicle Safety Act bill relates to the maximum fine that an automaker must pay in cases where a proven delayed recall announcement was taken. Currently the maximum fine stands at $17 million. The proposed fine would replace that maximum fine amount to $250 million instead.
The bills advocates point to documents that reportedly show that Toyota was able to save about $100 by delaying two recalls relating to sudden acceleration. The company was forced to pay a $32.4 million fine for both delayed recalls. The bill has been reportedly called “unfair” and “out of proportion” by certain auto industry groups.
The bill also includes a provision to prohibit car rental companies from renting out recalled vehicles to unknowing consumers.
As a Los Angeles personal injury attorney, I understand the inherent dangers of defective products and the risks they entail. I hope this information can help raise awareness about recalled products and keep consumers safe. If you or a loved one has been injured through the use or consumption of a defective product, speak with a Los Angeles product liability lawyer to learn about the legal options available to you.
