2016's Most Significant Product Recalls

As consumers, we should feel confident that any vehicle or product that we purchase or use has been properly manufactured, evaluated and tested for safety.

However, every year, millions of defective products are recalled in the U.S. each year. 2016 saw several significant product recalls.

Here are the top 5 from last year:

Samsung Galaxy Note 7. After several reports of this device catching fire without warning, Samsung recalled all original and also exchanged Galaxy Note 7 devices. The batteries in these devices can overheat and cause serious burn injuries in users. This device has even been banned on all airline flights because of the high risk of explosion and fire. Consumers can exchange their Note 7 phones for another Samsung smartphone or receive a refund.

Takata airbags. Incredibly this recall is entering its fourth year. Takata airbags are used in millions of cars but have been recalled because of dangerous explosions that sent metal pieces flying into drivers and passengers, resulting in many injuries and deaths. Up to 42 million U.S. vehicles may be affected. ConsumerReports.org has complete information on all vehicles involved in the recall.

Volkswagen vehicles. Because of defective and false emissions control systems, 11 million Volkswagen vehicles of various models have been recalled. Volkswagen must pay significant fines and refit vehicles not in compliance with emissions standards. Many owners of affected vehicles will receive compensation vouchers. Visit vw.com/owners-recalls for more information.

IKEA dressers. Some IKEA dressers in the MALM series have tipped over, causing serious injury and even death in children and adults. Almost 30 million of certain dressers and chests have been recalled because of these stability issues. Dressers should be securely anchored to the wall. Check to see if your furniture is affected here.

General Motors vehicles. GM issued a recall because of faulty ignition switches in cars and trucks. Under certain conditions, the ignition switch may move out of the "run" position which can cause a partial loss of electrical power and the engine may turn off. Learn more at the GM ignition switch recall website.

If you or a family member has been injured in by a defective product or by any type of personal injury, please contact the Law Offices of Diana Santa Maria, P.A. immediately. Our experienced attorneys will fight for the compensation you deserve. Please call us for a free consultation. Attorney Diana Santa Maria, personal injury attorney in Fort Lauderdale, will fight to secure justice for you and your family. You can reach us at (954) 434-1077 or contact us via the website.