Imagine driving down the highway when suddenly, your vehicle loses a wheel. This nightmare scenario is not only terrifying but also incredibly dangerous. Jeep wants to avoid this type of risk with its latest recall, which affects hundreds of thousands of its SUVs.
The automaker recalled more than 338,000 of its Grand Cherokee SUVs. Specifically, the recall affects Grand Cherokee L vehicles from the 2021 through 2023 model years and the Grand Cherokee SUVs from 2022 through 2023. According to Jeep, the suspension component of the affected vehicles could break, causing a wheel to detach.
In a release, Jeep explained that the problem lies in an error during the vehicles’ manufacturing process which damaged the bolts joining the upper control arm ball joint and steering knuckle. If the bolts break, the components may separate, detaching a wheel from the vehicle and causing loss of control.
Jeep received 20 complaints related to the detachment issue, but so far there are no reports of crashes or injuries.
The risks of losing control
When a wheel comes off a vehicle, the consequences can be catastrophic. Drivers may lose control, leading to swerving, rolling, or collisions. Such incidents put not only the driver at risk but also passengers and other road users.
The injuries from such accidents can be severe. They include:
- Broken bones
- Lacerations and bruises
- Whiplash
- Traumatic brain injuries
In addition to these physical injuries, vehicle occupants may also suffer emotional trauma from an accident caused by a detached wheel.
Turning to legal courses of action
You may have grounds for a product liability lawsuit if you’ve suffered from a detached wheel due to a manufacturing error. Product liability refers to the legal responsibility of a manufacturer or seller to ensure that their products are free from defects.
To establish a successful product liability claim, you must demonstrate that the product had a defect; said defect caused the product to become unreasonably dangerous; and that the defect caused you injuries.
However, filing a product liability lawsuit is an intricate process. The manufacturer of the defective product might respond to the claim by taking the matter to court, which can be intimidating and confusing to the average person. If you or a loved one suffered injuries from a manufacturing defect, it might be a smart idea to consult a personal injury attorney. An attorney may be able to assess your case, help gather evidence and advocate for your rights to compensation.
