Chrysler Again under Fire for Defective Fuel Tanks in Jeep Models

 Posted on December 00, 0000 in Car Accidents

Approximately two years ago, Chrysler recalled almost three million of Jeep Grand Cherokee and Liberty SUVs that were reportedly at risk of catching fire from the fuel tank. This recall was issued after some serious legal wrangling, as Chrysler had initially refused to recall the vehicles, despite reports from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) that at least 51 people had been killed in explosives crashes. The NHTSA initially began investigating reports of the defective fuel tanks in 2010. Chrysler finally agreed to the recall in June 2013. At issue was the design defect of the placement of the fuel tank behind the rear axle of the vehicle. The year and models of the vehicles recalled are 1993-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokees and 2002-2007 Liberties.

However, two years later, it appears that the automaker is still dragging their feet. There are multiple reports of low repair rate of the defective fuel tank – with the potential of more lives being lost in fiery Jeep crashes. According to reports, only small percent of defective tanks have actually been repaired. Chrysler’s solution to the deadly problem is to install a tow hitch to the bumper of affected vehicles. Critics say that solution is not the fix and point to testimony taken from a deposition of the Chrysler engineer who is credited with inventing the Jeep. In his deposition, the engineer stated, “A tow package does not protect the tank.”

In the meantime, people continue to die in Jeep crashes and Chrysler continues to settle wrongful death lawsuits instead of repairing the problem. As of this writing, the company has been hit with over 30 lawsuits, including one where the company was hit with a $150 million jury verdict in the 2012 death of a 4-year-old Georgia boy, who was riding in the backseat of a 1999 Jeep Cherokee when it was hit from behind and exploded.

If you have been injured in a car accident caused by a defective vehicle, contact an experienced Lake County injury attorney to find out what legal recourse you may have against the manufacturer for your pain and loss.