Product recalls related to motor vehicles and automobile parts occur frequently, and two recent actions should be of concern to owners of certain models. Ford Motor Company announced the following issues covering almost 500,000 vehicles:
- Certain F-model pickups and Lincoln Continental cars manufactured from 2017 through 2020 contain a flaw that leads the rearview camera to become cloudy, impairing the operator’s visibility.
- There have been at least 25 reports of Ford Expeditions and Lincoln Navigators catching on fire from fan motors that spark. The affected models were manufactured from 2015 to 2017.
The recall announcements include instructions on how owners can arrange for repairs through authorized dealerships, and Ford will cover all costs. However, a recall is a preventative measure. Many other dangerous products remain on store shelves and in homes, and they can cause serious injuries. If you or a loved one was hurt, you may have remedies under product liability laws. A Maryland defective products attorney can explain the details, and some background information is helpful.
Product Recalls and Your Rights
Whether it is the government or a manufacturer’s voluntary decision, recalling a defective, dangerous product is meant to protect the public. The act does not impact an individual victim, and a recall does not automatically mean someone is entitled to compensation. Instead, you must prove the elements of a product liability case, including:
- The product was unreasonably dangerous because of a defect;
- The flaw was present in the item when it left the manufacturer’s facility; and,
- The defect directly caused the victim’s injuries.
From these elements, you can see that there is no requirement to show that the manufacturer was somehow negligent or at fault in putting a defective product on the market. Most product liability cases are based upon strict liability, so you do not need to prove carelessness. While a recall does not automatically qualify you for damages, it is strong evidence of a defect.
What to Do if You Were Hurt by a Defective Product
Your first priority is seeking appropriate medical care at the ER, an urgent care facility, or your physician. Proper medical care protects your health, but it could also affect your legal rights. In addition, some tips include:
- Contact a products liability attorney right away to get started on the claims process.
- Take pictures of the product, the defect, your injuries, and any property damage caused by the defect.
- Write down all identifying information about the product, such as serial and model number, color, design, and other details.
- Gather all documentation related to your purchase of the product, including a receipt. If you bought online, retrieve the confirmation and all email messages.
Discuss Remedies with a Baltimore County, MD Defective Product Lawyer
Legal representation is crucial when pursuing your remedies under product liability laws, as you may be entitled to compensation for your losses. Please contact Attorney Michael A. Freedman for more information. You can call 410.363.6848 or visit our website to set up a free case review at our offices in Owings Mills or Glen Burnie, MD.
