The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is looking into allegations of airbag failure concerning model year 2002 and 2003 Hyundai Elantras.

The investigations have started due to the deaths of at least two individuals in car crashes when their air bags did not deploy when needed. In addition, they’re looking into reports of the airbags deploying when it was not necessary. This investigation could eventually concern 340,000 vehicles. 

The NHTSA has also decided to look into reports concerning the airbag light illumination claims. The Office of Defect Investigation (ODI) has received 35 claims so far. In one of the fatal accidents, the light came on indicating the air bag would deploy but didn’t. Test results show that there was a prior short circuit in the control module, possibly due to a spilled drink. The cupholders were located directly above the control module.

If you have been injured in an accident due to a defective airbag, contact the Racine defective airbag lawyers of Habush Habush & Rottier S.C. ® at 1-800-682-3434 to discuss your case and to determine your legal options.