Anton Yelchin's Family Suing FCA Following Actor's Death
The family of actor Anton Yelchin is suing Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) over the rollaway accident that caused his death.
Yelchin was killed on June 19 when his 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee rolled backward on a steep driveway, crushing him against a brick wall and fence. Now, his parents are suing FCA for negligence and product liability as a result of the rollaway crash. Yelchin’s vehicle was under a recall that was issued two months earlier.
The lawsuit is believed to be the first wrongful death complaint linked to the recall in April that included more than 1.1 million cars and SUVs because the vehicles could roll away after the drivers exit. The issue was allegedly caused by the confusing electronic shifter.
SEE ALSO: Jeep Grand Cherokee Set to be Recalled Following Actor’s Death
In the U.S., the recall affects 811,000 vehicles and it has been linked to 68 injuries, 266 crashes and 308 reports of property damage. Yelchin’s tragic death is the first fatality known to be tied to the recall.
[Source: Automotive News]
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Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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The recall was not issued two months earlier. A warning letter was issued before Anton's death, but there was no fix available then. The official recall arrived at Anton's house 7 days AFTER his death. The company was told by the government to issue a recall and fix the faulty design in August of last year. For whatever reason(s) FC delayed that recall. I have researched their history and discovered reports that they have done so for as many as 11 other recalls dating back to 2013. I watched a video clip today from a major news organization. Two attorneys discussed this case, agreeing that the fact that FC found it necessary to provide special instructions/warnings regarding the Monostable gear shift in the owner's manual indicates that the company was aware of the defective design but chose to install it in their vehicles anyway. They also agreed that FC is in deep legal trouble over this case. This is at least the third lawsuit filed against FC since June 19th. I watched video clips of the news conference today held by the Yelchins' attorney. Mr. and Mrs. Yelchin cried as they spoke about their beloved son. My heart broke. I hope they win, and I hope they refuse any out of court settlement. The public needs to hear about the company's record.