Rhode Island Accident Lawyer Blog
The unfortunate accident that resulted in the death of actor Anton Yelchin seemed like a freak car accident like many that happen all over the country every day, but it may have been caused by a defect recently the subject of a recall for the SUV he was driving. His body was identified at the scene of the accident between a fence and the vehicle. The Jeep Grand Cherokee rolled into him after he attempted to exit the vehicle.
Fiat Chrysler recalled more than 1 million of these vehicles equipped with a device known as a monostable shifter this April. The shift lever has been the subject of great confusion among drivers of the vehicle since it rests in a groove after it has been pointed to neutral or park, sending the lever back to a default position. This makes it much easier for a driver to exit the vehicle and then realize that the car is actually still in drive.
A number of reports and accidents have already made its way to the car manufacturer including 212 crashes, 41 injuries and more than 300 reports of property damage. These reports were ultimately the cause of the recall. Recall notices were sent to the news media as well as in the mail to consumers who may have the vehicle, per National Highway Traffic Safety Administration regulations.
Personal injury cases involving issues like this may arise if the other party in an accident alleges that the accident was caused by a defective part. This claim in a Rhode Island car accident case can make things much more complicated. You need an attorney who understands these difficult issues and can help you with your case.
Although it is not yet known whether or not the defective part in the vehicle caused Anton Yelchin’s accident, it is certainly an important reminder to be aware of any defective parts that could put you at greater risk of being involved in a car accident. If you have already been involved in a Rhode Island car accident, you need the insight of an experienced Rhode Island personal injury attorney.