If you’re like many Americans, you put a so-called “blind trust” into government safety programs. After all, what country would want the worst for its citizens? Most people trust that government programs are out for their best interest. But the truth is that no system is flawless. People – inherently faulty – run our government programs. Therefore, missteps are just a part of the equation in many cases. That’s why The White House has called upon the formal review of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in light of its apparent mishandling of a recent airbag recall.

“There have been some issues that have cropped up,” said a White House spokesman. “The Department of Transportation review that has commenced is the right step to make sure that everyone is focused on learning from this situation and strengthening the response.”

The hubbub follows on the heels of a “botched effort to inform 8 million motorists about a potentially lethal air-bag defect” according to reports at Businessweek. In addition, the NHTSA will be investigated to an unrelated GM recall that was purportedly too slow, possibly exposing millions of Americans to needless increased risk. To ramp up the efforts, Congress is said to be getting involved in the investigation as well.

The biggest problem seems to arise out of the recent massive airbag recall and the alleged lack of action on behalf of the NHTSA. For more information on that specific recall, please click here.

“The issue being raised centers on Tokyo-based auto-parts supplier… and how the U.S. safety regulator has responded to reports that the company’s air bags may inflate with so much force metal pieces can be flung at passengers,” reports said.

About 7.8 million vehicle recalls resulted from the faulty airbags.

According to reports, the Transportation Department will review whether the NHTSA is capable and swift enough to move on threats to public safety. The NHTSA has been without a chief since January.

“There is a tendency to deflect blame and point the finger at others rather than accept responsibility and learn from its own failures,” the panel’s investigators said.

RECALL SAFETY IN YOUR OWN HANDS?

Although the government must be expected to perform in cases of mass-recalled products, you can take a proactive approach as well when it comes to your own personal safety. Did you know you can set up recall alerts with Recalls.gov to be notified whenever a potential problem arises? Of course, Recalls.gov is a government run site, so it’s up to you to also be a vigilant consumer.

ALWAYS REGISTER YOUR PRODUCTS

Most products come with a registration card of some kind and it’s usually postage-paid. Always be sure to send your information especially as it pertains to machinery, car seats, baby items and appliances. Some manufacturers are quick to spot problems and can notify you quickly compared to government-run sites.

REPORT PROBLEMS IMMEDIATELY

Most recalls occur as a result of good consumers like you who report problems to the manufacturer. If you spot any type of issue, don’t hesitate to call the manufacturer as soon as possible. You may be saving lives.

FOLLOW UP ON RECALLS YOU’RE AWARE OF

Don’t delay the fix! If you know your car has a recall, don’t delay getting it fixed at the dealership. In most all cases, the recall repairs will be free of charge. Don’t risk driving a faulty vehicle on the road.

RECALL-RELATED CAR ACCIDENTS

If you’ve been involved in a recall-related car accident or suspect your accident could have been caused by a faulty defect, you may be entitled to legal rights including financial compensation. It’s important to discuss your case with an experienced personal injury lawyer right away. Call us now 24/7 at 1-858-551-2090 for a FREE and confidential review of your case.