According to National Institute of Standards and Technology’s reports, the number of automobile fires each year remains high (estimated 300,000). Many of those motor vehicle fires are attributed to the use of substandard auto parts and flawed designs. They also have the potential to cause disfigurement, excruciatingly painful injuries and death. Perhaps that’s part of the reason why the recent fuel system inspired motor vehicle recalls garnered so much attention.
The latest round of fuel system recalls took place in early June 2013. They involved several new vehicles manufactured by Ford. The company blamed the recalls on substandard fuel lines. It wasn’t the first occasion where Ford had to deal with defective fuel lines either. A similar occurrence took place last summer. The list of motor vehicles said to be outfitted with the most recent substandard fuel lines includes the popular Taurus, Fusion and Lincoln MKZ.
Ford wasn’t the only motor vehicle manufacturer forced to deal with defective fuel systems this year either. In May 2013, General Motors issued their own fuel system related recall. It involved a defective fuel shut-off solenoid that had the potential to pose incendiary risks. Motor vehicles connected to the solenoid recalls were the Savana Cargo van and Chevy Express.
So how can consumers protect themselves against being involved in vehicle fires due to defective equipment and design? The first step is to conduct thorough research on the motor vehicle’s manufacturer. Check for fuel system related recalls going back three to five years. If the manufacturer has a history of issuing such recalls, you may want to consider shopping elsewhere. It is also a good idea to have one’s vehicle selection examined by a professional both before and after the purchase. Doing so will help to uncover problems that have yet to spur a nationwide recall.
Remember that although beneficial, taking such steps won’t guarantee that you or a loved one will never fall victim to a vehicle manufacturer’s negligence. If you do find yourself injured due to a faulty fuel system or a poor design element, contact a personal injury attorney immediately.
