Several injuries have been reported in connection with the latest recall by Fiat Chrysler trucks. The recall affects 1.8 million Ram heavy-duty trucks in North America with gear shifters on their steering columns. The truck has been reported to suddenly shift out of park when the driver’s foot was not on the brake or even when the key was not in the ignition.
The defect is related to an electrical problem that causes the brake-transmission shift interlock device to malfunction when exposed to high interior temperatures. The truck’s shifter can then move unexpectedly, which increases the risk that the truck could roll away. As of late December, Fiat Chrysler was trying to remedy the problem. In the meantime, Fiat Chrysler warned drivers to use the parking brake when the car is not in motion to prevent rollway. It also recommended that truck owners do not leave children alone in parked cars.
The recall affects trucks dating back to 2009 with shifters mounted on the steering columns. Trucks with rotary-dial or floor-mounted shifters are not subject to the recall. Also, 2017 model trucks built after December 31, 2016 are not included in the recall. Fiat Chrysler has acknowledged that it is aware of seven injuries related to the defect. There were also an unknown number of collisions linked to the malfunction.
Fiat Chrysler maintains that the current defect is not related to the gear-shifting malfunction that prompted a federal investigation of Fiat Chrysler cars back in 2016. The investigation was initiated after Star Trek actor, Anton Yelchin, was killed in an accident in his 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee. The actor was struck and pinned to a gate by his Jeep, which was one of the models involved in the recall for faulty gear shifters. It is estimated that this defect caused 266 crashes and 68 injuries. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) closed the investigation when Fiat Chrysler agreed to recall 1.1 million vehicles for gear shifting malfunctions.
If you or a member of your family was injured in an accident resulting from a recalled vehicle, contact Alexander Law Group, LLC. Our exceptional personal injury lawyers will be sure you get the maximum compensation possible. Call 888.777.1776, or contact us online.
