Driving on Missouri and Illinois roads can be nerve-wracking for conscientious drivers who take safety rules seriously. Factoring in the unknowns of road conditions and other drivers can make driving an even more anxiety-producing prospect. Few of us would expect that we might need to worry about the very vehicles we’re driving, since we rightfully expect these products to be safe for our use. Unfortunately, product recalls due to dangerous or defective parts that pose an explosion or fire risk often come too late to safe innocent victims from injury or even death.
Many of our readers have likely heard about the various safety recalls General Motors (GM) has issued over the past year or so. Now, GM is facing another crisis in the form of natural gas vans which pose potential dangers of explosions and/or fires. Complaints have reportedly circulated that GMC and Chevrolet natural gas vans could possibly be in danger of exploding or catching on fire due to alleged gas leaks.
In the wake of these allegations, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration announced that 30 separate incidents of warranty claims for potential gas leaks has led to a safety recall of thousands of Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana vans which are powered by natural gas. The leaks can supposedly originate in the regulators of the vehicles. In the event that some sort of spark or ignition occurs near the leak, an explosion or fireball could result.
Reports indicate that GM has acknowledged the fact that this risk of gas leaks could pose a danger to consumers and so is now enacting the safety recalls to replace the affected regulators. While this is good news for those who could face this danger going forward, this safety recall may not be soon enough to protect those who have already been affected.
Any Missouri or Illinois victim of a fire or explosion caused due to these defective parts may have the right to file a personal injury lawsuit in a civil court of law. Those who have tragically lost a loved one may similarly be able to make a wrongful death claim in court. Our nation’s civil court systems exist to provide injured parties the right to seek restitution that is in addition to any penalties that may be imposed in any criminal case. For situations where a criminal case is not pursued, it can provide a much-needed sense of justice for those who have been wronged due to the negligence of another party.
If you have been injured in an explosion or fire caused by an allegedly defective GM part — or through the negligence of any other party — please dial my St. Louis personal injury law firm toll-free at 1-888-586-7041 to discuss the specifics of your case. We accept civil cases on a contingency basis, so you will only owe us money in the event that we successfully collect financial damages on your behalf. Please call us to schedule a free initial appointment to have your defective parts case evaluated. We take pride in representing our clients and helping them receive justice in Missouri and Illinois courtrooms.
Disclaimer: The choice of a lawyer is an important decision and should not be based solely upon advertisements.
Sources: http://www.aboutlawsuits.com/gm-van-recall-71247/
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