Because of concerns raised over the less-than safe placement of the fuel tank in 1993-2004 Jeep Cherokees and 2002-2007 Jeep Libertys, The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) began an investigation of their safety in 2010. The deaths of more than 75 people suggests the fuel tank was placed in the vehicle incorrectly.
As opposed to industry standards whereby gas tanks are placed in front of the rear axle to protect it in cases of rear-end accidents, Jeep chose to place the tanks for the Cherokee and Liberty models behind the rear axle, just under a foot from the bumper. This constitutes a risk of explosions in the event of an accident.
While NHTSA attempted to enforce a recall of almost 3 million Jeep vehicles, Chrysler contested the recall after purchasing Jeep in 2009. Once the U.S. Department of Transportation became involved, Chrysler voluntarily opted to recall 1.5 million Cherokee and Liberty vehicles and have a tow package installed in the rear of the vehicle to offer further protection for the gas tank.
Since this decision in 2013, however, only 3% of the vehicles have been equipped with a tow package and NHTSA has become frustrated with the time it took to recall the 1.5 million Chrysler vehicles. Many also question whether tow packages will provide vehicles with adequate protection for the gas tanks at all.
The victims of gas tank explosions all around the country have filed lawsuits accusing the manufacturer knew the risks involved with the tanks but failed to act.
Glenda Cochran Associates, Attorneys at Law can fight for your right to recover damages if you or a loved one suffered harm because of a gas tank explosion.