Table Of Contents
What’s the Problem?
According to the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), this recall affects:
- 2006-2020 Altec AH150 Articulating Non-Overcenter Aerial Devices
- 2006-2020 Altec AH125S Articulating Non-Overcenter Aerial Devices
An incorrect counterbalance valve may have been installed in the main lift cylinder on affected Altec aerial lifts, NHTSA said. This problem could cause the counterbalance valve to open due to the pressure in the cylinder exceeding the setting.
“If one of the hoses between the cylinder and the external counterbalance valve manifold were to fail to hold pressure, the boom could unexpectedly lower, increasing the risk of an injury,” NHTSA said.
Altec is notifying owners and dealers will install the correct counterbalance valve if necessary, free of charge.
See more Altec Lawsuits:
Wrongful Death Lawsuit Targets Altec Lift Manufacturer
In February 2017, the widow of a tree-removal worker killed in May 2015 filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Altec Inc. for manufacturing an aerial lift that allegedly malfunctioned and struck her husband, who died before emergency personnel could arrive on the scene.
Michael D. Shaud was part of a 3-person tree-removal team employed by Shull’s Tree Service, Inc. that was using a 1994 Altec LR III aerial lift mounted on a GMC Topkick Chassis. A co-worker was aloft in the bucket, while Shaud gathered debris from the ground.
A 3rd co-worker, Paul Willman, witnessed the accident and claims he “felt the vehicle shake uncharacteristically.” That shaking turned out to be the boom arm collapsing, ejecting its operator and fatally striking Mr. Shaud.
Carol A. Shaud, the administratrix of Michael D. Shaud’s estate, filed her action in the Philadelphia County Court of Common Pleas.
Defendants in the lawsuit included Altec Industries, Inc. and Altec, Inc. of Birmingham, Alabama; Altec Corporation of Philadelphia; and Mickey’s Truck & Equipment Sales and Mickey’s Truck & Equipment Sales, Inc.
This recall began on January 14, 2021.
Related litigations:
See all related product liability lawsuits our attorneys covered so far.
FAQs
1. Who Is Eligible To File An Altec Aerial Lift Recall Lawsuit?
Individuals who were injured due to defects in Altec Aerial Lifts or those who experienced significant property damage may be eligible to file a lawsuit. This includes workers and bystanders affected by the equipment.
2. What Compensation Can Be Sought In The Altec Aerial Lift Recall Lawsuit?
Compensation can include medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related damages. In severe cases, compensation for permanent disabilities or disfigurement may also be pursued.
3. What Should I Do If I Suspect A Defect In An Altec Aerial Lift?
Stop using the equipment immediately and report the issue to your supervisor or safety officer. Document the defect and any resulting injuries or damages, and consult with an experienced attorney to discuss your legal options.
Do I Have an Altec Aerial Lift Lawsuit?
The Products Liability Litigation Group at Schmidt & Clark, LLP law firm is an experienced team of trial lawyers that focus on the representation of plaintiffs in Altec Aerial Lift Lawsuits. We are handling individual litigation nationwide and currently accepting new injury and death cases in all 50 states.
If you or a loved one was injured, you should contact our law firm immediately. You may be entitled to a settlement by filing a suit and we can help.