A recent news report said that General Motors is expanding a December 2010 recall to include more 2011 trucks and SUVs (almost 27,000 vehicles) because of possible mechanical problems with the rear axle cross pin. According to GM, the recall now includes the following models: Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV and Cadillac EXT; Chevrolet’s Avalanche, Colorado, Silverado, Suburban and Tahoe; as well as GMC’s Canyon, Sierra, Yukon and Yukon XL.
Defective Product Liability
GM says that the rear axle cross pins “may have been improperly heat-treated and could fracture, causing the axle to lock while driving. Owners of the vehicles are being contacted and urged against driving the trucks until the axle pin is replaced.” So far, GM says they only know of one incident related to the axle problem. If the pin fractures and becomes displaced, drivers may hear a banging noise from the rear axle.
GM says that the rear axle could lock if the pin shifts out of position and interferes with other vehicle functions; the driver could also lose control driving. Reports say that dealers would begin installing new rear axle cross pins free of charge by January 25. While it’s good that GM is replacing the pin, anyone who is injured as a result of this defective product would have a case and would need to speak to a defective product lawyer.
Talk to a Defective Product Attorney Los Angeles
People who are injured as the result of an auto product defect can seek compensation for injuries and damages by filing what’s called “an auto products liability claim” against the manufacturer, in this case, it would be GM. In cases where a product defect or malfunction causes a car accident, victims should preserve the vehicle in its current condition, so that an expert can thoroughly examine it for evidence of design flaws, defects and malfunctions.
Most importantly, a defective product attorney can advise victims or a defective product injury or their families about their legal rights and options under defective product law. Please call our office at 1-877-702-7274 or email us at info@arashlaw.com for a FREE consultation with our experienced defective product attorneys.
