Dangerous Issue Found in Ford Explorers Causes Drivers to Pass Out
An issue involving the exhaust systems of Ford Explorers has resulted in a number of complaints and injuries according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NTSA).
Since the Ford Explorer is often used as police cruisers, cities like Miami are taking the extreme stance of pulling the vehicles out of service.
In a recent article that appeared on CBS Local in Miami, in spite of assurances by Ford Motor Company that they will fix the issue, in the interests of public safety, the Miami Beach Police issued a statement about taking the vehicles out of service for the time being.
“We have been made aware of concerns regarding Ford vehicles in the state of Texas. Out of an abundance of caution and concern for the health and well-being of our employees, all city owned Ford SUV’s will soon have carbon monoxide detectors installed.”
It’s also been an issue around other areas of the country. Last year in Henderson, Louisiana one of the officers on the police force wrecked her police Explorer when she passed out, allegedly due to increased exposure to carbon monoxide.
According to Henderson Police Captain, James Thibodeaux, when the officer was treated at the hospital, investigators requested that doctors check her for carbon monoxide exposure. “Her levels came out near lethal,” he said.
Last Thursday, the injured officer filed a lawsuit against Ford Motor Company. According to additional reports, 41 officers from Newport Beach California and 20 officers from Austin, Texas had to be treated for carbon monoxide exposure.
The NHTSA reported that more than 2,700 additional owners of the vehicles from model years 2011 through 2017 allege that they are also experiencing carbon monoxide seepage in their Explorers. While the federal agency has not determined the exact cause for the issues with Ford Explorer exhaust systems, the issue remains under investigation.
Officials say that 400 Ford Explorers have been removed from service in Miami.
Ford said in a statement that also appeared on the website Officer.com that they will repair the problem safety is its top priority. Ford currently has a team working with police and regulators to investigate reported issues and solve them.
If you have been involved in an accident involving a vehicle that may have been recalled or have other issues such as equipment failure, you could entitled to compensation for your injuries or any damages that you have suffered. Other costs such as medical bills and time off the job can also put stress and strain on you and your family.
If you live in the Miami-Dade area and have been in an accident, contact us today. One of experienced attorneys will make an appointment to speak with you about the details of your case. We will be there to help when you need us and make sure that your rights are protected. Contact us today for a free consultation and legal analysis.