One in Five Fatal Car Accidents Involve Missing Air Bags; Carfax Takes Action to Protect Public

  To: Assignment Desks

  (Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080507/CARFAXLOGO )

  Contact: Christopher Basso of Carfax, 703-934-2664

  News Advisory:

A new report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) finds that nearly one in five fatal accidents involve cars that have missing air bags. This problem endangers the lives of used car buyers, current owners and innocent passengers. To help protect the public from this potentially fatal fraud, air bag deployment information reported to Carfax is available for free at www.carfax.com/airbag.

Industry experts estimate that as many as 1 out of 25 previously deployed air bags are not properly replaced. Carfax urges drivers that have had their car's air bags replaced to make sure all air bags are functioning properly. In addition, anyone shopping for a used car should have an ASE-certified mechanic or body shop inspect the air bag system prior to purchase, along with a Carfax Vehicle History Report.

Carfax communications director Larry Gamache is available for interview to discuss the dangers of improperly repaired air bags and offer tips for avoiding the purchase of unsafe vehicles.

To schedule an interview, contact Christopher Basso of Carfax, 703-934-2664.

Available Topic Expert(s): For information on the listed expert(s), click appropriate link.

  Larry Gamache
  Christopher Basso
   

  /PRNewswire -- Feb. 20/

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