Ford Motor Co. is recalling about 150,000 F-150 pickup trucks from model years 2005-2006 because of the potential chance that the air bags will deploy without warning. An MSNBC article states that the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA) has received reports of 98 injuries from unintended air bag deployment. The government has reportedly encouraged Ford to recall 1.3 million F-150s from the 2004-2006 model years. While it is unclear at this time whether the Ford recall will be expanded, the NHTSA is investigating whether the recall is too limited.
Ford had originally stated that air bags accidentally deploying in the pickups posed a “relatively low risk”. The NHTSA began investigating air bag issues with Ford pickup trucks over a year ago. In May, Ford informed the government that some reported injuries caused by accidental air bag deployment included neck and back pain, bruises, burns, cuts, and two individuals reported broken or chipped teeth and two reported fractures of the elbow or arm.
Ford’s F-Series pickup truck is one of the most popular vehicles in the United States and the recall is expected to be closely monitored to ensure consumer safety.
Car manufacturers are responsible for designing and creating vehicles and vehicle parts that are safe and free of any defect that could cause harm. Air bags play a vital role in vehicle occupant safety in the event of a motor vehicle collision. However, if an air bag or other auto components are defective, an air bag may deploy without an accident occurring. An air bag defect could also prevent the device from deploying altogether or make it release at a greater speed than is deemed safe.
As an air bag injury attorney, Steven H. Heisler, “The Injury Lawyer”, has seen first-hand how devastating air bag injuries can be for an injury victim and their family. Mr. Heisler has dedicated his personal injury law practice to protecting the rights of those harmed by another’s negligence. Call 877-228-4878 today for a free consultation and to learn more about your legal rights.