Earlier today, Ford Motor Company announced that it is expanding a recall of Ford F-150 pickup trucks. According to reports, Ford was initially opposed to the idea of expanding the recall from 144,000 trucks to the current total of approximately 1.2 million F-150s. Ford is recalling the trucks because of “unintended air bag deployments”, which can result from an electrical short circuit. The recall affects 2004-2006 Ford F-150 models. As a Pembroke Pines Car Accident Attorney, I have seen the injuries that people suffer from a malfunctioning airbag, and oftentimes those injuries are very severe, which is why I wanted to make note of this recall.
According to media coverage of the Ford F-150 recall, there have been up to 66 reports of injuries, including cuts, broken teeth, and even burns. Furthermore, two people reportedly told federal regulators that they were knocked unconscious because of the air bag impact. From a Pembroke Pines Car Accident Lawyer’s perspective, it is deeply disturbing to hear about these injuries and I sympathize with the victims who have been physically hurt by the unexpected air bag deployments.
Whether or not Ford will face a product liability lawsuit depends on the severity of the injuries suffered. As a Pembroke Pines Personal Injury Attorney, I see how the airbag can directly cause injuries, but in terms of bringing a claim against Ford, it would depend on how seriously injured someone is because of the “unintended air bag deployment.” In other words, if someone were to bring a personal injury lawsuit against Ford, it would depend on the totality of their damages. The damages can include, but aren’t limited to, physical, financial, or emotional suffering.
According to the NHTSA report on the Ford F-150 Recall, dealers will remedy the issue for truck owners, as long as they bring the vehicle in to the dealership for service. This recall is a big deal, because of the total volume of F-150s on the road. In 2010 alone, there were approximately 528,000 F-150s sold. Thus, this recall will affect a large number of people, which unfortunately means that a lot of people are at risk for personal injury. That is why it is essential to contact your dealer if you own a 2004, 2005, or 2006 Ford F-150 to ensure that the air bag issue is fixed.
