Meriden CT – April 18, 2006 |  One of the most frightening things about buying a new or used car is the possibility you just bought a “lemon.” But that lemon could be part of a much larger bunch, as some vehicle defects are common to an entire model or manufacturer. When that happens the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) investigates and, when necessary, can issue a recall of the vehicle or part. Usually the recall will result in a repair at no cost to the owner.

“The concern we have is that the NHTSA doesn’t always hear about problems until thousands of the defective cars are already on the road,” said Ray Palermo, Director of Public Relations for Response Insurance, a national car insurer. “Safety related defects could put drivers and their passengers at serious risk, so owners who suspect their car has a manufacturers’ defect should report it immediately to the NHTSA.” The NHTSA reviews all complaints to determine if there is any trend that poses a safety risk.

According to Palermo, car owners now have the opportunity to file a report with the NHTSA online at www.safercar.gov, which also has information on current vehicle recalls. Complaints may also be filed by phone to 1-888-327-4236 or by mail to the NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation, 400 7th Street SW, Washington DC 20590.

Response Insurance regularly provides to the public news and information regarding driver safety and transportation issues. The Company issues safety tips, reports, analyses, and conducts original research and sponsors national surveys as a public service to drivers, their passengers and pedestrians. Informational brochures are available from the company at their website: www.response.com