Earlier this year, Fiat Chrysler announced it would be recalling nearly 1.33 million automobiles from around the world, citing fire risks and defective airbags as the underlying issues. Several injuries were reported in relation to the defective SUVs. Recently, on September 19th, the same company released a statement saying it would be recalling over 443,712 pick-up trucks due to a faulty water pump that has been identified as the cause of a fire-risk. The pump, when overheated, could result in fire around the engine. Drivers who notice a light indicating issues with the water pump should contact a Chrysler dealer as soon as possible, according to the statement.
Affected Vehicles
The trucks potentially affected by the defect are the Ram 2500 and 3500 (2013-2017), each outfitted with a 6.7-liter engine. Other trucks being recalled by Chrysler are the chassis cab trucks, specifically the 3500, 4500 and 5500 models. Though no injuries have been reported, according to the press release, the company noted that there have been “a small number of fire-related incidents.” The NHTSA has listed all vehicles affected by this issue on its website.
Ever Growing List
Chrysler’s recent notice can be added to an ever-growing list of recalls. Over 42 million automobiles affected by the deadly Takata airbag deployment system and nearly 3 million cars using the faulty GM ignition switch have been recalled after reports of severe injury and death. By some accounts, the defective GM product has caused nearly 124 deaths and 275 injuries, and the Takata airbag has resulted in at least 19 deaths.
Course of Action
If your vehicle is affected by Chrysler’s recall, do not hesitate to take your car to a nearby dealer where mechanics will be able to make the appropriate changes preventing future harm to you or your family.
As noted on CourtRoomWarrior.com, companies often recall vehicles with defective parts to lessen the potential financial losses associated with future lawsuits. It should be noted that, even if a manufacturer has recalled your vehicle, you may be able to receive compensation. If you or your loved ones have been harmed as a direct result of a defective motor vehicle or a defective motor vehicle part, you should contact an attorney with experience in product liability lawsuits.
Product Liability Claims
When dealing with a product liability case there are a number of points to consider. To begin with, there are three entities that you could potentially sue. The retailer, the wholesaler and the manufacturer are all possible defendants in a product liability lawsuit. In some cases the repair shop may also be liable.
Criteria
It can sometimes be difficult to substantiate claims regarding a defective product. You must be able to show that the product is indeed defective. This might mean proving that the manufacturer made a mistake in fabricating the product or it might involve showing that the design itself is inherently flawed. You must also show that you were injured and that your injury was directly caused by the faulty product. Finally, it must be made plain that you were using the product in the proper way.
Experts
In some cases, you may need the help of an expert. Accident reconstruction engineers, for instance, can be useful for pinpointing the cause of a collision. If it can be shown that you were forced into an accident by a faulty car part, then you are well on your way to receiving compensation.
Of course, every state has its own statutes dictating how product liability claims should be filed. Specifically, each state has certain limitations on when such claims may be filed. For this reason, it is a good idea to reach out to an attorney sooner rather than later, so he or she may begin investigating your accident and injury to help determine the best plan moving forward.
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