Fire Risks Lead to Massive 133,000 Recall of Off-Road Vehicles

After reports of 160 fires in off-road vehicles, one of which claimed a life, vehicle manufacturer Polaris has recalled 133,000 of its vehicles, according to a recent article in the Star Tribune.

The vehicles have been involved in over 160 reported fires so far, including an incident in which a 15-year-old girl suffered burns to over 65 percent of her body when her rented off-road vehicle rolled over and burst into flames. The girl, who had been on vacation in Utah with her family, endured 27 separate surgeries to attempt to save her life, but she later died of her injuries. Other riders also suffered severe injuries in that accident.

In all, 19 injuries, including the fatal one, have been reported. The litany of damage includes first, second, and third-degree burns from the various fires.

Investigators believe that the fire hazard results from a faulty fuel tank line, which can be pinched in a way that causes the tank to pressurize and to leak fuel, greatly increasing the risk of a fire or explosion.

The recall constitutes one of the largest recalls of off-road vehicles in the country’s history, according to analysts at the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). It is also the largest recall ever issued by Polaris.

The recalled ORVs include several of Polaris’s most popular models, including the RZR 900 and the RZR 1000 in model years 2013 to 2016. The current recall also covers a more limited recall of 53,000 RZR models announced in October 2015.

While you have “safe driving” on your mind, take some time to review these mission critical 7 Spring Driving Tips, and call our Washington D.C. auto accident attorneys for a free consultation about your potential case.