In 2020 alone, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) administered close to 900 safety recalls affecting more than 55 million vehicles and equipment.

Recently, NHTSA released communications requesting that anyone who believes their vehicles may have a safety problem to contact the agency directly. NHTSA said it explores all complaints that come across the agency’s desk — no matter how big or small.

Fleet operators are urged to be vigilant on potential safety issues that are mechanical, electrical, or governed by software. If it presents an unreasonable risk to safety, manufacturers are required to file a NHTSA safety recall to fix the problem.

Roadway fatalities continue to rise across the nation. An estimated 20,160 people lost their lives in motor vehicle crashes in the first half of 2021 — up 18.4% over 2020.

Vehicle owners, including fleet operators, who identify a potential safety defect can contact NHTSA online or call the agency’s Vehicle Safety Hotline at (888) 327-4236.