Messa & Associates posted a blog last month about reports that 2011-2017 model Ford Explorers were leaking carbon monoxide into the cabins and poisoning vehicle occupants. Ford continues to deny that the vehicles are unsafe, but on November 15th, the automaker began alerting over one million vehicle owners that they could receive free repairs from Ford for the potentially deadly defect.
Ford still won’t issue a recall, which leaves watchdog group, Center for Auto Safety, unsatisfied. While Ford is offering free repairs including air conditioner reprogramming and drain valve replacements, the number of complaints continues to grow, including 41 injuries and 3 accidents that could be linked the leak.
CBS investigative reporters spoke with Steve Simmons, who just purchased a 2015 Ford Explorer just a few weeks earlier. He made the dealer buy back the vehicle after he got sick behind the wheel, including nausea, headaches, dizziness, and blurred vision. A blood test by his doctor revealed that he was suffering from Carbon Monoxide poisoning.
“What would have happened to me and my wife?” Simmons asked. “We would have been asleep, off the road, doing at least 70 or 75 miles an hour while we were doing it.” He said he could have been killed. In response to the experience, Simmons launched FordExplorerNightmare.com in hopes of rallying support for a recall.
“What’s it going to take before decisive action is taken? Now I know it’s a lot of money for Ford, but I mean, you know, put a value on human life,” Simmons said.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has yet to comment on the timeline for its own investigation, but agrees that. “This action by Ford does not bring closure to the issue.” The agency urges consumers who receive the letter from Ford to call their dealer.
Philadelphia Personal Injury Attorneys
The Philadelphia personal injury lawyers at Messa & Associates are experienced at handling cases involving defective products and motor vehicle accidents. Our extremely skilled team of personal injury lawyers and medical experts is dedicated to ensuring you receive proper compensation for your personal injuries. If you have been injured by a carbon monoxide leak in a Ford Explorer, in a car crash, by a defective product, or have endured any other type of personal injury, contact the personal injury lawyers of Messa & Associates for a free consultation. Call toll free at 1-877-MessaLaw, or submit a free online inquiry.
