Ford has issued a vehicle defect recall for more than 620,000 cars, SUVs, vans and trucks, including the popular F-150 model, because their backup cameras may occasionally go blank or show a distorted image while in use. According to Consumer Reports, if this happens, drivers may not be able to see people or obstacles behind them, which could lead to a crash.
What This Recall Means
In a written statement, Ford said the problem arises from a malfunction in a circuit board that is part of the backup camera system. The automaker said the faulty circuit board may cause images to be distorted or not show at all when the vehicle is in reverse gear. This means that the vehicles don’t meet federal safety standards for visibility, which could lead to a collision, injury or fatality.
When the recall begins next month, Ford dealers will replace the entire backup camera system at no cost to consumers. Vehicle owners with questions may call Ford at 1-866-436-7332. You can check if your vehicle is part of this recall by visiting the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and plugging in your vehicle’s 17-digit vehicle identification number or VIN.
Dangers of Faulty Backup Cameras
According to the advocacy website, KidsandCars.org, in the United States, at least 50 children are being backed over by vehicles every week. Most of the victims in such cases are young children between 12 months and 23 months. Over 60% of backover accidents involve a larger size vehicle such as a truck, van or SUV. On March 31, 2014, NHTSA announced that it would require all automobiles sold in the United States built beginning in May 2018 to include backup cameras.
When a backover accident occurs due to defective backup cameras, the automaker can be held liable for the injuries, damages and losses caused. If you or a loved one has been injured as a result of these or other vehicle defects, you may be able to seek compensation for damages, including medical expenses, lost income, hospitalization, cost of rehabilitation, pain and suffering and emotional distress. An experienced auto defect lawyer will be able to remain on your side, fight for your rights and help you secure maximum compensation for your tremendous losses.
Source: https://www.consumerreports.org/car-recalls-defects/ford-and-lincoln-recall-2020-models-for-faulty-backup-cameras/
