Products Liability Update: Defective Bicycles
Now that spring has (finally) arrived, motorists have to exercise greater caution due to the increasing number of bicyclists on Tennessee roads. To be sure, a majority of Tennessee bicycle accidents are caused by motorist negligence; however a small fraction of bicycle accidents occur each year as a result of defective bicycles or bicycle parts. This blog entry provides detailed information on three current nationwide bicycle and bicycle part recalls.
Two bicycle manufacturers have produced defective handlebars that have broken and caused serious cases of personal injury in Tennessee to bicyclists. The first, Salsa Bicycles, has recalled over 8,000 bicycles due to the risk of its handlebars cracking or breaking. So far, there have been three reports of defective handlebars resulting in falls. One incident led to the rider falling off his bike and breaking his wrist.
The Salsa Bicycle recall involves all “CroMoto SUL” stems sold as individual aftermarket units as well as several models of complete Salsa bicycles (Ala Carte, El Mariachi, Casseroll Triple, Casseroll Single and La Cruz). The aftermarket bicycle stems are black and have the word “Salsa” painted on the bar.
Specialized Bicycle Components, Inc., is the second manufacturer of defective handlebars. It has issued a recall of its 2009 model bicycles because of the risk of the handlebar breaking and causing a fall. The recall involves these bikes: Cross Trail Comp, Myka HT Comp, Myka HT Elite, Rockhopper, Rockhopper Comp and Rockhopper Comp 29. 14,000 of these bikes have been sold to date. Specialized has received only one report of a fall, but the accident caused the rider to suffer severe head trauma and a puncture wound to the arm.
Specialized has also issued a recall of its Roubaix Comp and Roubaix Pro bicycles because of the risk of the cable-stop loosening and causing a fall. 3000 of these bikes have been sold nationwide, and the company has received two reports of falls. The reported incidents of product liability have resulted in bone fractures to the riders, which required medical attention and surgery.
Those who own these defective bicycle products in Tennessee are asked to stop using them immediately and contact the authorized dealers for a free inspection and replacement of the bicycle or part. However, if you or a loved one has been seriously injured as a result of a defective product, please contact a skilled Knoxville product defect attorney who will help you explore your legal rights and options. Call 866-853-2888 today for a free consultation.
