Ford is the latest auto maker to issue a recall after defective parts cause accidents
In the wake of wave upon wave of auto recalls for defective Takata airbags, yet another auto recall is being announced. This time, the affected vehicle part is the steering wheel.
About five months ago, The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration began an investigation into reports that the steering wheels of Ford Fusions from model years 2014, 2015, and 2016 were coming loose or even detaching. Obviously, this is a huge safety issue, since the lack of steering control can easily cause car accidents.
According to one report from a Georgia driver, their 2015 Ford Fusion’s steering wheel fell into their lap as they turned into a gas station. Two other reports told of bolts connecting the steering wheel to the steering column coming loose while driving. In these cases the problem was noticed in time to get the bolds tightened at a repair shop.
Ford has since acknowledged the problem with a press release and a recall. In the press release, the company states that they are aware of two accidents and one injury related to the defective steering wheel bolts. Ford is recalling about 1.37 million vehicles, including 2014-2018 Ford Fusions and 2014-2018 Lincoln MKZs. Owners of vehicles affected by the recall can take their cars to a dealer starting April 30 for free repairs, which will include replacing the defective bolts with bolts that are longer and have more aggressive threads to hold torque better, as well as covering the new bolts with a nylon patch for additional security against them coming loose.
Have You Been Injured by an Auto Defect?
Automobiles are complex machines, and there are many design and manufacturing mistakes that can compromise their safety. For example, there is the well-publicized issue of defective Takata airbags, which contain volatile chemicals that can become unstable and cause airbag canister explosions. There have also been issues with SUVs with centers of gravity that are too high, creating a risk of rollover accidents. Some of these SUVs were also affected by defective roof supports that created the risk of roof collapse in the event of a rollover accident. Another problem was GM ignition switches that could suddenly turn off the engine while driving. As you can see, this issue with defective steering wheel bolts is just the latest in a laundry list of vehicle defects.
If you have suffered an injury in a car accident as a result of any kind of automobile defect, you are entitled to compensation. However, you need to be careful to find the right car accident attorney to help you. At The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker, we have specific experience with automobile defect lawsuits. We know how to go up against big auto makers and win. Call us at 800-333-0000 to learn more about the potential of your case.
