Chicago Accident Lawyer Blog
The Bicycle Crash Attorneys of Attorneys of Zneimer & Zneimer P.C. represent the victims and family members of those injured or killed in a bicycling-related accident. According to a study by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, as many as 13% of bike injury incidents are associated with the mechanical failure of a bicycle. While many of these accidents are caused due to improper maintenance or other external factors, many occur as a result of bicycle that was defectively designed or manufactured. Consumers are reminded of the importance of keeping track of safety recalls.
Our concerns extend from the announcement of two separate bicycle recalls in the past month, as reported by the Chicago Tribune.
Youth Bike Recall.
On July 31, 2014, Dynacraft recalled 3,100 Avigo 20-inch Turn N’ Burn Youth bicycles (Model No. 8107-62), sold exclusively at Toy “R” Us stores, stating that the front wheel can detach, causing a child to fall. Dynacraft is aware of at least one incident, in which a child sustained minor injuries after falling as a result of the wheel becoming detached. Consumers are advised to immediately discontinue use of the bike, and contact Dynacraft to arrange for a free repair. To view more information, see the CPSC’s Dynacraft Recall Summary.
Mountain Bike Recall.
On July 23, 2014, East Coast Cycle Supply recalled 1,800 Trayl TRN 29-inch hardtail mountain bikes, sold exclusively at Sports Authority, stating that the brakes can fail to stop riders within the distances required under federal regulations. East Cost has been notified of at least one non-injury related incident in which the braking system failed to work in accordance with federal standards. Consumers are instructed to immediately stop using the bicycle, and return them to Sports Authority to obtain a free repair. To view more information, see the CPSC’s East Coast Cycle Recall Summary.
In addition to these two recent recalls, there have been more than a dozen other bicycle and bicycle component recalls in 2014 alone. Consumers can protect themselves in two ways. First, register your bike (or your child’s bike) with the manufacturer/distributor, so that you are receive notification in the event of a recall. If you move, be sure to update your information. Second, regularly check for safety recalls by visiting the CPSC’s Recall Website, or at www.recall.gov. It is important to check for recalls yourself, rather than rely on registration-related notifications.
As Bike Injury Attorneys, the Chicago law firm of Zneimer & Zneimer P.C. understands that bicycle accidents can occur for a variety of reasons. If you were injured, or a loved one was killed in a biking-related incident, it is imperative to have a legal professional review your matter, to determine and/or rule out potential causes, including faulty or defective bicycle components. For more information on personal injury claims involving consumer products, see our Products Liability practice area. You may also contact us with any questions or concerns, by using the form provided on the right-hand-side of this page, or by calling 773-516-4100.