The Harley Davidson motorcycle recall resulted in over 250,000 motorcycles around the world being taken back over safety concerns. The recall was issued as a result of problems with the brakes. It covers Touring, CVO Touring, and VSRC models made between the years of 2008 and 2011 that come equipped with anti-lock brakes. According to Harley Davidson, the recall will cost upwards of $29 million.
Riding a motorcycle is riskier than driving a car. You’re more exposed, and you’re closer to both the road and other motorists. This means if you’re injured in an accident, the effects could be more severe than a car crash. If you or a loved one has been hurt in such an incident, a lawyer can help. At Belt, Bruner, & Barnett P.C., our motorcycle accident lawyers have the experience to fight for the compensation you deserve under the law. To schedule a free consultation, call (205) 933-1500 today, or reach out through our online form.
Problems with Brakes Lead to Motorcycle Recall
After receiving over 40 complaints about the brakes on Harley Davidson motorcycles, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) began their investigation. After three accidents and two injuries, the NHTSA discovered there was, indeed, a problem. The issue lies with part of the antilock brake system (ABS) some Harley Davidson models are built with. The ABS can become corroded, causing the brakes to lock without warning. This concern led to several hundred thousand bikes being recalled around the world. Of those recalled, roughly 175,000 motorcycles were in the United States.
A possible solution to the ABS issue is for riders to change their brake fluid more frequently. Harley Davidson suggests motorcycle owners change their brake fluid every two years. Several people who have complained about brake failure have not followed this recommendation. Brake fluid that has not been changed for too long can become contaminated by moisture. This contamination corrodes valves that are essential to the function of the brakes. Too much corrosion leads to brake failure. While Harley Davidson was aware that some complainants were not following the brake fluid suggestions, they recalled the bikes anyway. In the recall report, the company took note of the fact that total and unexpected brake failure is an issue, regardless of whether maintenance suggestions are being adhered to.
Know Your Legal Options
Harley Davidson faces legal repercussions for the defects in their bikes. In Alabama, manufacturers or assemblers can be held liable for injuries caused by their products if:
- Their actions caused the defect in the product, such as an anti-lock braking mechanism that causes the brakes to fail
- They had substantial control over manufacturing, testing, or design of the product
- Their actions had a direct connection to the product’s condition.
Additionally, Alabama law recognizes a manufacturer’s liability if you’re injured due to any of the following:
- Manufacturing Defect – An unexpected flaw causing the product to be unusually dangerous
- Design Defect – Unreasonable danger caused by the intended design or use of the product
- Marketing Defect – Otherwise known as a “failure to warn,” a marketing defect occurs when rational steps are not taken to prevent a consumer from using a product dangerously
Has Your Life Been Affected by the Harley Davidson Motorcycle Recall? Call Us Today
Motorcycle accidents can be life-altering events. If you’ve been hurt by or on such a vehicle, you need to talk to an experienced motorcycle accident attorney right away. You need help, and you have questions. Belt, Bruner, & Barnett P.C. can help. Whether you want to talk compensation, or just see what your next step is, we have you covered. Call (205) 933-1500, or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation today.
