Fulton County Motorcycle Defects and Recalls
Motorcycles and other motor vehicles are among the most common to be recalled for safety-related issues. Because the safety issues related to a defective motorcycle can have devastating results, it is crucial that you keep up with any recalls and respond accordingly.
If your motorcycle has been subjected to a recall, it is important to understand the process for remedying the problem to ensure your ability to continue riding as safely as possible. The following details what you need to know when Fulton County motorcycle defects and recalls arise. If you have any further questions about the procedures, a knowledgeable motorcycle accident attorney has answers.
What is the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Role?
Under the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has the authority to compel vehicle manufacturers to recall products that fail to either meet federal safety standards or that contain defects that could make them unsafe. Over the last 50 years, the NHTSA has recalled nearly 400 million vehicles for safety concerns.
Although the manufacturers are responsible for remedying the defects once the recall is issued, it is the NHSTA’s duty to oversee the process to ensure compliance with federal laws and regulations. An attorney could further explain the NHSTA’s role in Fulton County motorcycle recalls.
How Motorcycle Recalls Are Handled in Fulton County
When a defect in a motorcycle or one of its components is discovered, either the NHTSA or the vehicle manufacturer issues a safety recall. When this happens, the manufacturer has several responsibilities.
Manufacturer’s Duty to Notify
Motorcycle manufacturers must search for all registered owners through each state’s Department of Motor Vehicles and notify them of the recall by first-class mail within 60 days. The letter must contain the following information:
- A description of the defect
- The defect’s potential safety hazards
- How to have the defect corrected at no cost to the owner
- When the remedy will be available
- How long the remedy will take
- Contact information should any issues arise
Where the defect involves equipment, manufacturers can access the information of owners who have registered their vehicles with the manufacturers. Other notification methods might include advertisements and posters to disseminate information about the recall as widely as possible.
Do Manufacturers Have a Duty to Remedy the Defect?
Federal law requires manufacturers to remedy the defects at no cost to motorcycle owners. To meet this requirement, the manufacturer can repair the defect, replace the vehicle, or provide a refund.
How to Access Motorcycle Defect and Recall Information
The NHTSA’s website contains a good deal of useful information about motorcycle recalls generally, as well as whether a particular vehicle has been the subject of a recall. Visitors can search for recall information by Vehicle Identification Number, make and model, tire brand and line, and equipment brand and model. They can also file a vehicle safety complaint online.
The NHSTA also maintains a toll-free Vehicle Safety Hotline at (888) 327-4236, where Fulton Count motorcycle owners can access or report defects or recall-related information. A seasoned attorney can also help advise motorcycle owners of their rights and obligations in a recall.
Seeking Legal Assistance for Fulton County Motorcycle Defects and Recalls
If your motorcycle is experiencing safety issues that you believe should be the subject of a recall, or if a recall has been issued, you should consider seeking legal assistance. A lawyer experienced in Fulton County motorcycle defects and recalls could provide further guidance. Call today to discuss your options.
