Motorcycles are vehicles that offer very little protection and thus there is no room for error. It is up to motorcycle manufacturers to release products that are safe to use so riders do not face severe injury or death in motorcycle accidents.
Polaris Industries recently recalled more than 2,300 motorcycles after a defect with the fuel pump was found. According to consumer watchdogs, the defect can lead the fuel pump to stop working, causing the motorcycle to stall. The company has notified motorcycle owners of the defect and at no additional charge will replace the fuel pump.
Why Are Motorcycle Manufacturers Obligated to Warn Consumers of Defects?
Automobile manufacturers are required by law to report defective parts to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and to alert consumers of a recall for the parts. Through the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act (MVSA), the NHTSA can set safety standards for vehicles as well as issue recalls. Since the creation of the MVSA, more than 390 million vehicles have been recalled to fix safety defects.
What Can Happen If Companies Fail to Warn Consumers of Defective Parts?
Sometimes companies will not want to issue a recall because it will cost them money to fix defective parts – or they honestly believe a safety issue does not exist with their product. Regardless of what the company believes, the NHTSA can still carry out an investigation and issue a recall. Motorcyclists and car owners can use safercar.gov to find recall information on their vehicles.
Consumers hurt by defective products who are seeking to be awarded damages for their injuries could have a strong case depending on the circumstances. The best way to explore this option is to consult with an attorney.
Metier Law Firm has a strong desire to help victims of motorcycle accidents who have been injured by defective products. We invite our readers to join our community by visiting our Facebook and Twitter pages.
Metier Law Firm – Motorcycle Accident Attorneys Representing Clients Nationwide
Did You Know? The largest vehicle recall in U.S. history was in 1980, when Ford Motors recalled 21 million vehicles.