Following the expansion of its recall over defective airbags, Takata has announced that it will be replacing a volatile chemical in its airbag inflators. The announcement comes less than a month after the Japanese auto parts manufacturer doubled its recall of U.S. cars and trucks fitted with its faulty airbags. The recall includes 34 million U.S. vehicles from various automakers and is the largest automotive recall in American history.

According to Takata officials, the company will stop using ammonium nitrate as a propellant in its airbags. The chemical compound is suspected to play a role in causing airbags to deploy with too much force. When this happens, airbags can rupture and injure vehicle occupants with shrapnel.

Over the past year and a half, Takata airbags have been linked to numerous injuries and several deaths. While safety officials are still exploring the exact cause of the defect, they believe ending use of ammonium nitrate will help improve safety of the airbags.

At The Daspit Law Firm, we’d like to remind all local residents about the importance of taking recalls seriously. If your vehicle has been recalled due to defective Takata airbags, we recommend that you take it in for immediate service. If you are unsure if your car or truck has been recalled, you can visit this government website to search your vehicle’s VIN.

Our firm is also available to help individuals or families who were harmed by defective airbags. If you have questions about your case and whether you may be eligible to pursue a recovery of your damages, contact The Daspit Law Firm for a FREE case review.