Ford Recalls Escape and C-Max Models for Side Airbag Issues
Ford Recalls Escape and C-Max Models for Side Airbag Issues
Ford is recalling more than 692,000 Escape small SUVs and C-Max gas-electric hybrids for a software glitch that can stop the side curtain airbags from deploying.
According to a Fox News report, the recall covers vehicles from the 2013 and 2014 model years.
The company issued a statement saying that the software problem can prevent the side curtain airbags in these vehicles from inflating in certain types of rollover crashes.
Problems with Side Airbags and Door Handles
So far, no crashes of injuries have been reported. When the recall begins, dealers will reprogram the airbag control computer for free.
About 65,000 of the vehicles recalled are C-Max models and the rest are Escape SUVs. The affected Escapes were built from Oct. 5, 2011 through Feb. 14, 2014. The C-Max vehicles were built from Jan. 19, 2012, through Feb. 24, 2014.
In addition to the airbag issue, the Escape vehicles also have an issue with exterior door handles that can prevent the doors from latching properly. This means that the doors could fly open when the SUVs are in motion.
Again, no crashes or injuries have been reported.
In these vehicles, dealers will inspect the handles and adjust their position if necessary.
Auto Product Liability Issues
These are both dangerous and potentially deadly auto defects. We know that rollover crashes can cause catastrophic or even fatal injuries.
This is particularly true in cases where the vehicle lands on its roof and the roof caves in crushing the vehicle’s occupants. These types of incidents result in catastrophic brain and spinal cord injuries.
During such violent crashes, we count on airbags and seat belts to protect us. However, when the vehicle’s airbags fail to deploy, occupants could suffer significant traumatic injuries. The door handle defects, needless to say, could result in occupant ejection and severe injuries or fatalities as well.
When an auto defect causes injuries, victims can file a product liability lawsuit seeking compensation for damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, hospitalization, rehabilitation, pain and suffering and emotional distress.
Families of deceased victims can seek compensation by filing a wrongful death claim against the automaker.
Victims or families would be well advised to contact an auto defect law firm that has the resources and experience to handle their case successfully and hold the negligent automakers accountable.
