Chrysler Issues Major Pickup Truck Recall

It has been a turbulent year for automakers across the world, with high-profile recalls reaching record numbers. Now Fiat Chrysler has added a new slate of recalled vehicles to the 2014 totals at the close of the year, recalling approximately 67,000 model year 2006 and 2007 pickup trucks. 

The recall was issued after a problem was discovered that could potentially allow trucks to be started without first having the clutch depressed. Chrysler has already indicated that one death has been connected to the issue. 

This new recall from Chrysler comes after an investigation by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in May, prompted by a report of a child managing to start a 2006 Dodge Ram 3500 truck without ever using the clutch. The truck began to move forward, and wound up hitting and killing another child in front of it. 

The cause of the issue is a wire in the clutch’s ignition interlock switch. The investigation into the design of the vehicle revealed that the switch could break in trucks that have manual transmission, which could wind up either keeping the car from starting altogether or enabling the truck to move as soon as the ignition is turned. 

Vehicles affected by the recall include the Dodge Ram 1500, 2500 and 3500, the Dodge Dakota, and the Mitsubishi Raider. All vehicles were made between July 2005 and June 2006. There are an estimated 55,000 currently being used in the United States. 

If you believe you’ve been injured due to defects in any automobile, it’s important that you take immediate action so that you can hold the responsible party accountable. Speak with a dedicated lawyer at [ln::firm_name] in New York to learn more about how you can seek damages through a products liability claim.