California motor vehicle owners may be interested to learn that Ram Trucks is recalling 1.4 million pickup trucks across the U.S. and Canada due to a problem with their tailgates. Apparently, the tailgates could fly open while the vehicles are in motion, potentially allowing cargo to slide out into traffic.
The recall affects 2015, 2016 and 2017 model years of Ram 1500, 2500 and 3500 pickup trucks that have power locks. Ram trucks with manual locks and 8-foot beds are not affected by the tailgate issue and are not part of the recall. The 2019 Ram 1500 has a new tailgate design and is also not part of the recall. Around 1.1 million of the recalled trucks are located in the U.S., and 300,000 are located in Canada.
According to Ram’s parent company, Fiat Chrysler, there have been no reported accidents over the tailgate issue, but it has received more than 5,800 consumer complaints. Ram dealerships will begin fixing the problem on Sept. 14. Until then, the automaker is encouraging Ram owners to secure any cargo that is transported in the back of their truck.
Automobile manufacturers are required to ensure that their vehicles are safe for public use. People who are injured due to an auto design defect may have grounds to file a personal injury lawsuit against the automaker and others. Costa Mesa defective product and machinery legal representation could review a victim’s case and provide professional advice regarding the viability of the claim. Legal counsel could also help gather evidence to support the lawsuit, file all necessary paperwork in court and work to obtain a fair settlement.
Source: FOX News, “Ram is recalling 1.1 million pickups because their tailgates might open unintentionally“, Gary Gastelu, Aug. 2, 2018