The family of Orlando motorist Hien Tran, who died last month after a crash blamed on shrapnel from a faulty airbag, filed a lawsuit Monday against Honda and the airbag manufacturer, records show.
Tran, 51, died Oct. 2 following a Sept. 29 crash that led to fatal, stab-like wounds that initially mystified investigators.
Weeks later, Orange County Sheriff’s homicide detectives concluded pieces of metal or plastic sprayed by an exploding airbag caused her death.
“We intend to get to the bottom of what Honda and (airbag maker) Takata knew over the past decade,” said Orlando Attorney Henry Didier, who represents Tran’s eight sisters and brothers. “The actions of Honda’s management — and whether or not lives could have been saved — needs to be fully investigated.”
Honda and other car makers using airbags made by Takata have recalled about 14 million vehicles worldwide.
“We cannot comment on the specifics of the complaint at this time,” said Honda spokesman Chris Martin. “Our focus is on continuing the actions already underway to address the needs and concerns of our customers.”
Takata could not be reached for comment. Tran’s death was the first attributed by law enforcement to a faulty airbag. The lawsuit was filed in Orange County.