
On October 3, 2023, concerns surrounding the 2018-2019 Volkswagen Atlas SUVs became more pronounced, as they came under the scanner of federal regulators. A peculiar issue has been flagged repeatedly with the vehicle’s automatic emergency braking system, known as “Autonomous Emergency Braking Front Assist.” Rather than assisting drivers, it seems to have potentially put some at risk.
This braking system, as Volkswagen designed it, is intended to come into play when imminent forward collisions are detected, thereby activating brakes automatically to prevent or mitigate the impact. However, 59 registered complaints with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) suggest that the system might be far from flawless. These grievances are united by a common thread: the braking system engaging unexpectedly, even when no forward obstacles are present. Such sudden decelerations, as reported by at least five complainants, have resulted in injuries.
While the idea behind automatic emergency braking is to enhance safety by reducing the impact or likelihood of a collision, unpredictable activations of this system can lead to the exact opposite effect, escalating the chances of rear-end collisions. The NHTSA has not only taken note of these customer complaints but has also received early warning reports related to the Atlas braking system.
Considering the gravity of these allegations and the potential risk they pose, the NHTSA has initiated an investigation encompassing more than 184,000 VW Atlas SUVs. The outcome of this inquiry could have significant implications for Volkswagen and the car owners.
Understanding Legal Recourse for VW Atlas Owners
Owners of the 2018-2019 Volkswagen Atlas SUVs who have experienced issues with their vehicle’s braking system might be entitled to legal redress. Should the braking system be found faulty, victims could potentially seek compensation for damages including medical bills, loss of income, pain and suffering, and even damage to the vehicle.
Filing a product liability claim necessitates a comprehensive understanding of product liability law, which is where the services of our seasoned attorney become invaluable. From gathering evidence, understanding nuances of the case, to negotiating settlements and representing the victim in court, our attorneys play a pivotal role.
In product liability cases such as these, it’s not merely about proving the malfunction, but also establishing the link between the malfunction and the injury or damage sustained. This requires a meticulous approach, expertise in the domain, and an in-depth understanding of both legal precedents and the specific product’s mechanics. Victims might be able to recover a range of damages, from medical expenses and vehicle repairs to pain and suffering.