The West Virginia Governor’s Highway Safety Program, in coordination with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, is reminding all motorists that “Safe Cars Save Lives.” West Virginia vehicle owners are urged to check their cars, trucks, and equipment for open safety recalls.
The scale of the issue is significant. In 2024 alone, 1,073 safety recalls impacted more than 35 million vehicles and automotive components across the United States. Despite these high numbers, millions of recalled vehicles remain on the road unrepaired, posing a direct threat to drivers, passengers, and other road users.
“Checking for recalls is free, quick, and easy,” said Jack McNeely, director of the GHSP. “We urge everyone to take a few minutes to look up their vehicle. Every recall is a safety priority and should be repaired immediately. This simple check is a vital step in keeping our West Virginia roadways safe for everyone.”
How to Check for Recalls: Free and Accessible Tools — Drivers have multiple ways to verify the safety status of their vehicles and equipment.
Online Lookup: Visit NHTSA.gov/Recalls to use the Vehicle Identification Number or License Plate Look-Up Tool. This allows owners to check for open recalls on vehicles, car seats, and tires. While online, users can also sign up for email Recall Alerts to stay informed about future issues.
The SaferCar App: Available for iOS and Android, this free app functions as a “virtual garage.” Once a user enters their VIN, the app monitors the vehicle and related equipment, sending an automatic notification if a recall is issued. The app even helps users locate nearby dealerships to schedule free repairs.
The Importance of Vigilance — While manufacturers send notifications via mail and email, the GHSP recommends that drivers proactively check for recalls at least twice a year. Unrepaired recalls can have devastating consequences; for example, the ongoing airbag recall—the largest in United States history—has been linked to 28 deaths in the U.S. to date.
Reporting a Safety Problem — Public input is often the first step in identifying a defect. If a driver suspects a safety-related issue that has not yet been addressed by a recall, they should report it at NHTSA.gov or call the Vehicle Safety Hotline at 888-327-4236. In many cases, a single complaint is enough to trigger a federal investigation and a subsequent safety recall.
For more information about the West Virginia Governor’s Highway Safety Program, please visit highwaysafety.wv.gov.
