Chicago Car Accident Lawyers Blog
In 2014, auto makers have recalled more vehicles than in any previous year. On Tuesday, the record grew a little larger as Ford announced a recall of about 100,000 vehicles.
The recall involves two separate issues with the larger of the two being an axle problem that may prevent a car from starting. In other cases, the faulty axle can cause a running vehicle to shift from drive into neutral. Parked vehicles can begin to roll if the parking break is not engaged. The 92,000 affected vehicles include model years 2012, 2013, and 2014 of the Ford Taurus, Flex, Edge, and Interceptor. About 200 Ford Fiestas from model year 2014 were recalled for a gas tank problem that could result in a potential leak, posing a threat to safety and a fire hazard.
Owners of the affected vehicles will be informed by Ford officials about the recall procedures including the steps to take to have the problems addressed and repaired.
Consumers have been faced with recalls totaling in excess of 32 million vehicles. Of those, General Motors has recalled 25.7 million and Ford approximately 3 million. So many vehicles have been recalled this year that a new annual record was set in June, just six months into the 2014 year. The prior record of 30.8 million recalled cars was set in 2004.
Defects in the design of cars that lead to safety threats have been responsible for thousands of accidents over the years. Some of these car crashes are minor and fortunately resulted in no injures, but in many cases, the drivers and passengers involved have been hurt or even killed.
When faulty design is responsible for injuries, the laws in Illinois may enable the victims of the crashes to seek relief. Speaking with a lawyer who represents car accident victims may help you understand your legal options, including whether you have a valid claim. Relief may entitled you to compensation for your injuries, pain and suffering, lost wages, and medical bills among any other damages you received. In the event that your loved one was killed, the right to seek a recovery may belong to the victim’s surviving family members.
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