After a series of recalls in March, Ford has announced an additional set of vehicles that will be subject to various recalls. According to a Consumer Reports article, Ford has issued over 600,000 vehicle recalls related to faulty steering, pumps, lights, and safety latches. Back in March of this year, the vehicle manufacturer recalled over 200,000 2011-2013 Ford Explorers. The recall was focused on malfunctioning door latches that presented the dangerous possibility of the latches springing open during an accident.
After the recalls, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration conducted an investigation into the safety of Ford vehicles. As a result of the investigation, Ford subsequently recalled 2012-2014 Ford Fiestas, 2013-2014 Fusions, 2013-2014 Lincoln MKZs, and Ford Edges. The automaker concedes that it is possible that these models are built with certain attachments that may break because of corrosion that would result in a loss of power. This dangerous lack of power can make the vehicle difficult to control, which could result in a crash. Additionally, some other concerns surround issues with the fuel pump, which could cause a vehicle to stall or not start while it is in use. Lastly, some of the vehicles were built without heat shields on the parking lights, which can result in a fire or explosion.
Ford has stated that these recalls are extremely serious, and owners can take their cars in to certified dealerships for repairs at no cost.
Product Liability Claims in New Mexico
The above reports do not indicate whether individuals who have been passengers or drivers in the listed models have been injured as a result of the faulty mechanisms. However, in many situations a recall is only conducted after there have been numerous reports of injuries. In those cases, individuals who suffered injuries or lost their loved ones may consider bringing a product liability claim or wrongful death claim against the manufacturer or distributor of the faulty product. In cases where an individual has been injured by a faulty product, including cars, they can bring claims against various parties. These parties include the manufacturer, seller, or wholesaler.
Types of Product Liability Claims in New Mexico
There are generally three types of product liability claims that can be brought in New Mexico:
- Design Defect Claims
- Manufacturing Claims
- Inadequate Warning Claims
A design defect claim alleges that the product was inherently dangerous in its design. If a person was using the product as it was intended and was injured because of a faulty design, they may have a viable claim. A manufacturing claim may be brought if there was some sort of mistake in the production of the product that resulted in an injury. Lastly, an inadequate warning claim contends that the manufacturer or seller did not provide the consumer with a proper warning. Manufacturers must provide warnings about non-obvious dangers of their products.
Have You or a Loved One Been Injured Because of a Faulty Product?
If you or a loved one has suffered injury or death because of a faulty product, you may have a product liability claim against one of the parties discussed above. These cases require a significant amount of research and preparation, and it is crucial that all proper parties are attached to the suit from the beginning. The assistance of an experienced attorney is indispensable in these complex cases. If you are successful in your claim, you may be entitled to monetary compensation for your injuries. Contact one of the attorneys at the Fine Law Firm at 505-889-FINE to schedule a free initial consultation.
More Blog Posts:
Family of Man Killed by New Mexico Police Office Files Suit, New Mexico Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, April 1, 2015.
State Supreme Court Remands Truck Accident Case For New Trial Due to Evidentiary Issue, New Mexico Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, May 12, 2015.