Government To Fine Takata $70M In Air Bag Recall Case

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- The federal government hits Takata with a massive fine, claiming the company knew its air bags were defective and lied about it. At least seven American deaths are linked to the problem, and millions of cars on the road still have the faulty air bags.

Meghan McCorkell with what's being done right now.

Takata has been ordered to pay $70 million up front for failing to acknowledge that deadly defect in its airbags.

Seven people killed, nearly 100 more injured in the U.S.

"Gushing blood. It was terrifying. I thought I was going to bleed out," said Stephanie Erdman, victim.

All of it linked to defective air bags that explode with such force, they send metal shrapnel flying into cars.

Nineteen-million vehicles with specific Takata air bags are now recalled, but many dealers don't have the parts to fix them yet.

"I have the stress of wondering if somebody's going to hit me and blow this air bag in my face," said Laura Byers, Mazda owner.

Now the federal government is firing back, fining Takata a record $70 million that could grow to $200 million if the company violates a new settlement.

"No one deserves to have an exploding air bag installed in their vehicle," said Mark Rosekind, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Takata officials now admit they've known the dangers their air bags pose for more than a decade.

"Delay, misdirection and refusal to acknowledge the truth allowed a serious problem to become a massive crisis," said Anthony Foxx, Transportation Secretary.

U.S. leaders have set up a timeline, requiring Takata to fix all cars by December 2019.

Recalled cars will be divided into priority groups based on age, whether it's been in a humid climate and the location of the air bags.

The recall is the largest in U.S. history.

Federal officials warn the Takata recall could grow even larger. That's because unless Takata can prove they're safe, U.S. officials may recall all of their air bags--a move that could impact millions more drivers.

In a statement, Takata officials say they plan to comply with all aspects of the settlement.

To find out more about the nationwide recall on Takata air bags and if your car is affected, CLICK HERE.