It’s getting difficult to keep up with these Ford Explorer carbon monoxide poisoning stories.
Over the course of the last few months, several police officers throughout the country have suffered exposure to elevated levels of the toxic gas. Many of those officers live right here in Austin. On Wednesday, July 9, another two officers received treatment due to exposure.
The exposures are occurring due to some unidentified defect in Ford Explorer SUVs. The company recently released a statement on the matter:
“We have investigated and not found any carbon monoxide issue resulting from the design of our Police Interceptor Utility Vehicles. We know police modify these vehicles, which can contribute to exhaust-related issues. We have provided instructions to help seal these modifications and are ready to inspect any vehicles with this concern.”
The police department is considering moving away from the Ford Explorer considering this serious issue, perhaps switching to Chevrolet Tahoes, like the Travis County Sheriff’s deputies and Texas Department of Public Safety troopers use.
Liability for Ford Explorer Carbon Monoxide Injuries
If it can be proven that there is a defect in the Ford Explorers causing carbon monoxide leaks prior to police modification, then the manufacturer could be held liable for medical bills, injuries and deaths caused by the problem. Further investigation is necessary to determine the true source of the problem, and hopefully, sooner rather than later.
