Ford’s Nationwide Recall Alert: Safety First in Unexpected Door Opening Issue (2023-2024) In a recent recall announcement by the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, the Ford Motor Company has initiated a substantial recall of certain models of its vehicles. The recall, announced on November 17, 2023, under the NHTSA Campaign Number 23V775000, addresses a […]
Ford Door Latch Injury & Wrongful Death
In a recent recall announcement by the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, the Ford Motor Company has initiated a substantial recall of certain models of its vehicles. The recall, announced on November 17, 2023, under the NHTSA Campaign Number 23V775000, addresses a critical safety concern where vehicle doors may unexpectedly open while the vehicle is in motion. This malfunction poses a significant risk of accidents or injuries to the occupants.
The recall specifically targets several Ford models, including the 2015 Ford Fiesta, the 2016 Ford Fusion, and the 2016 Lincoln MKZ. The scope of this recall is extensive, encompassing states with varied climatic conditions that may contribute to the defect. These states include Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico, Nevada, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, Washington, and several U.S. territories.
At the heart of this issue is a defect within the door latches. A component within the latches may break, rendering the door latch mechanism unreliable. This could lead to doors failing to secure properly or, more alarmingly, doors opening while the vehicle is in operation. The recall affects a potential 45,173 units, indicating the scale of the issue.
Ford has outlined a remediation plan which involves inspection and potential replacement of the door latches. This service will be provided at no cost to vehicle owners, demonstrating Ford’s commitment to addressing this safety issue. The company has also provided a timeline for owner notifications, with letters expected to be dispatched starting December 4, 2023. Ford’s customer service hotline, as well as a dedicated number for this recall (20S15), have been made available to assist affected owners.
For additional assistance, owners can reach out to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline or visit the NHTSA website for more information.
In light of these developments, individuals affected by this recall may have grounds to pursue legal action, particularly if they have suffered injuries, loss of a loved one, or other damages due to the defect. Product liability lawsuits are a common recourse in such situations, allowing victims to seek compensation for their losses. These lawsuits typically involve proving that the product (in this case, the vehicle) was defective and that this defect directly caused the injury or damage.
The process of filing a lawsuit involves several steps, each requiring careful navigation, often with the assistance of an experienced attorney. Initially, the victim must establish the basis of their claim, followed by gathering evidence and filing the lawsuit. Throughout the process, legal representation is crucial in negotiating with the opposing parties, navigating court procedures, and effectively presenting the case.
Compensation in product liability cases can cover a range of damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and, in some cases, punitive damages. The specific recovery will depend on the extent of the damages and the circumstances of each case.
For individuals seeking legal assistance, national product injury law firms like Parker Waichman LLP offer extensive experience in this area. Our firm provides free consultations, which can be a valuable first step for potential plaintiffs to understand their legal options. Victims can contact Parker Waichman LLP at 1-800-YOUR-LAWYER (1-800-968-7529) for a no-obligation consultation to explore their rights and possible legal avenues in the wake of this significant recall by Ford Motor Company.
Regardless of your location or where your injury occurred, our nationwide personal injury law firm is ready to assist you.
