It has been several years since the Center for Auto Safety (CAS) petition first raised concerns about Jeep gas tank fires. Now, federal safety regulators are expanding their probe into those fires. The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) has broadened its previous investigation of 1993-2004 model Jeep Grand Cherokees to include the 1993-2001 Jeep Cherokees and 2002-2007 Jeep Liberty models. This is the NHTSA’s final stage of deliberations over whether a recall is necessary. Jeep gas tank fires are considered responsible for at least 270 fatalities, and nearly 5.1 million Jeeps could be affected by full-scale recall.
Even though a recall is yet to be issued, those injured in and by fuel-fed car accidents may be able to file a Jeep gas tank fire lawsuit for damages.
Causes of Gas Tank Fires
Car manufacturers will sometimes mount fuel tanks behind a vehicle’s rear axle, and this can lead to a substantially higher risk of fuel-fed car accidents, especially when the tank is struck from behind. Fuel-fed car accidents are commonly caused when the gas tank is ruptured by a rear end collision, and a spark from either vehicle causes the tank to ignite. The resulting explosion can lead passengers of either vehicle to suffer grave injuries, life-long disabilities, or even death.
The safety issues with these Chrysler Jeep models are very similar to those faced by other car manufacturers, particularly Ford. The Pinto and Crown Victoria models, both manufactured by Ford, were found to cause gas tank fires because of design defects similar to those of the Chrysler Jeep models currently under investigation. The Pinto was recalled after fire hazards led to dozens of deaths. The Crown Victoria, a common model used by police and taxi companies, was claimed to have caused the deaths of 14 police offers from gas fuel fed fires sparked by rear end collisions.
Obtaining Legal Counsel
If you believe you or someone you know has suffered harm from a Jeep Gas Tank fire, please contact a lawyer at The Rothenberg Law Firm LLP immediately at 1-800-624-8888 or submit a FREE online case evaluation at InjuryLawyer.com. You could possibly qualify to bring legal action for monetary damages, medical costs, and other benefits.
There is no charge for the initial consultation. Also, if we agree to take on your case, we will work on a contingency fee basis. Meaning we only get paid for our services if we are successful in getting you compensation. Cases such as these are, typically, time-sensitive, and need be filed before an upcoming expiration date, known as the Statute of Limitations. Therefore, it is critical to contact us immediately in order to ensure you do not waive your legal rights to possible compensation.
