The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has recently issued a consumer alert regarding the importance of checking airbags in used vehicles before purchasing them. This warning comes after reports of substandard replacement airbags causing fatalities and serious injuries. In one tragic case, a young Florida mother named Destiny Byassee lost her life due to a counterfeit airbag imported from China that exploded in her car.
Destiny was described as a vibrant and caring individual by those who knew her best. She worked hard to support her young children and decided to purchase a used Chevy Malibu from DriveTime in Ft. Myers to replace her old vehicle. DriveTime, a buy-here-pay-here dealership, claimed that all their vehicles undergo thorough inspections before being sold. However, Destiny’s car was involved in a crash that led to her untimely death.
The airbag in Destiny’s car deployed during the crash, but instead of protecting her, it caused fatal injuries. The lawsuit filed by her family alleges that the airbag contained counterfeit components that exploded, sending shrapnel at high speeds towards Destiny’s face, head, and neck. Additionally, the seatbelt pretensioner in her car was found to be inoperable, further compromising her safety.
The situation with Destiny’s car is reminiscent of the Takata airbag scandal, which resulted in numerous deaths and injuries due to faulty airbag inflators. The NHTSA warns that substandard airbag inflators are still entering the market, posing a significant risk to consumers. Destiny’s car had a prior airbag deployment in 2022, indicating that it had been involved in a previous crash.
The investigation into Destiny’s case revealed that the airbag in her car was a Chinese replacement that was not approved for use in the United States. The car had changed hands multiple times, with repairs and modifications made along the way without proper disclosure. This lack of transparency in the used car market puts consumers at risk of unknowingly purchasing vehicles with dangerous components.
Carfax is now offering free searches for prior airbag deployments to help consumers make informed decisions when buying used cars. With over 2 million vehicles on the road with airbag deployments, it is crucial for buyers to have their potential purchases inspected by trusted mechanics to ensure their safety.
In a separate case, a couple was indicted for illegally importing and selling counterfeit airbag modules on eBay. These parts were falsely advertised as genuine, putting unsuspecting buyers at risk of installing faulty airbags in their vehicles. The couple made substantial profits from these illegal sales, highlighting the seriousness of the issue.
The tragic loss of Destiny Byassee serves as a stark reminder of the importance of thoroughly inspecting airbags in used vehicles. Counterfeit airbags can have deadly consequences, and consumers must be vigilant when purchasing pre-owned cars. By staying informed and seeking professional inspections, individuals can protect themselves and their loved ones from the dangers posed by substandard airbag components.