One of the fundamental aspects of car safety design is to assume that accidents can and will happen. So when taking into consideration the design and placement of the most dangerous part of the car, the fuel system and fuel tank, it is important that it is properly placed and protected so as not to burst into flame, particularly following an accident. A single gallon of gasoline explodes with the same amount of force as eight (8) sticks of dynamite.

Despite this common sense logic it is alarming to know that there are millions of cars on our nation’s highways and roads that have unsafe and defective gas tanks with fuel systems which are unable to endure even the slightest rear impact collision without bursting into flames. This well-known automobile phenomenon known as post collision fuel-fed fires (PCFFF) have the potential to cause severe burns, agonizing pain, and death, which can easily be avoided if manufacturer had designed the vehicle properly.

What constitutes unsafe fuel systems?

• Fuel tanks placed on the side or in the rear where they can be easily punctured during a collision.
  
  
• Placing fuel lines in positions where they can be ruptured during a crash.
  
  
• The use of inexpensive and weak materials to connect the fuel tank to where the fuel is inserted into the vehicle (the fuel filler neck) causing the two to separate and fuel to pour out during a collision.
  
  
• The use of unsafe materials to manufacture fuel lines, causing lines to decay or break during a crash.

Why does this happen?

Companies have been known to cut corners and costs by choosing fuel tank and fuel system designs which are less expensive. These designs often sacrifice safety for corporate profit. Despite the fact that for the past thirty years there have been safer fuel system designs (that have been tested to withstand crashes at speeds of 70mph) automobile manufacturers stubbornly refuse to incorporate proper safety measures into their designs.

These companies feel that it is more cost effective to come to court to defend themselves in lawsuits rather then making the needed safety improvements in their vehicles.

Injuries associated with unsafe fuel systems

Tragically, every year hundreds of individuals lose their lives in fuel-fed fires and explosions. However, if someone survives an explosion and the ensuing fire caused by an unsafe fuel system, they will likely suffer from severe, disabling and disfiguring thermal third degree burns. A full description of burn categories, burn severity, and the extensive treatment and costs associated with burn victims may be viewed by clicking on this link.

Your next step

As a result of faulty fuel systems and needless suffering from burn injuries, it is crucial that companies be held accountable for the defective products they sell.

The attorneys at Eisenberg, Rothweiler, Winkler, Eisenberg and Jeck P.C, are here to help you and your family. Call us toll free at (866) 569.3400 for a free consultation. We will help you understand your legal rights and options and get the compensation you deserve.