Yamaha announced that it would recall around 875 motorcycles due to engine stalling problems that could lead to dirt bike injuries. The recall affects YZ250 dirt racing bikes with model numbers YZ250FFL and YZ250FFW.
Stalling Problem
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), the engine of the bikes could lock up during operation which could cause loss of control, resulting in dirt bike injuries or possibly death. Yamaha did not release information regarding why the engines may be stalling, other than to note there were technical problems with the engine. The company is notifying registered owners of the dirt bikes about the recall, but urges anyone with a 2015 Yamaha with a model number starting with YZ250 to contact their nearest dealer as soon as possible.
Dirt Bike Accidents
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), there were more than 3,300 traumatic brain injuries in dirt bike accidents between 2001 and 2009. In 2003, at least 13 people younger than 19 died of dirt bike injuries while off-road riding. Although there are no statistics to indicate if stalling was the cause in any of the dirt bike accidents that led to injury or death, a stalling motorcycle can cause injury or death to the rider. Even professional drivers have been killed or injured when their bike engine suddenly seizes. In addition, some states do not require helmets for off-road riding, leading to additional head injuries should the rider be thrown off the bike due to the engine stalling suddenly.
Yamaha Advises Riders to Stop Using Bikes
In order to avoid dirt bike injuries or death, Yamaha is advising owners to immediately stop riding the dirt bikes and contact their dealer for repairs. The risk of danger is apparently significant, especially where dirt bikes are used by children and teens who may be less likely to react quickly when the motorcycle stalls. Yamaha says that the models in question are either blue and white or red and white. The vehicle identification number (VIN) is stamped on the frame near the steering stem. If the VIN has the letter “F” in the fifth position, it was manufactured in the 2015 model year.
If you own a Yamaha dirt bike and have experienced an engine stall that led to dirt bike injuries, you may have a product liability claim. Contact Attorney Group today to learn more.
