Pittsburgh Jack Stands Recall Lawsuit

If you or a loved one experienced injuries or property damage following the collapse of Pittsburgh Automotive Jack Stands, you may be entitled to pursue compensation.

At Schmidt & Clark, we are dedicated to helping individuals who have suffered due to defective automotive equipment.

Our experienced legal team is here to guide you through the process and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact Schmidt & Clark today for a free, no-obligation consultation.

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Should you or a family member have suffered injuries, it’s imperative that you reach out to our legal team without delay. You could be eligible for a monetary settlement through a lawsuit involving Pittsburgh Automotive Jack Stands, and we are here to assist you. For a No Cost Private Case Review, simply click the provided button or feel free to contact us around the clock by calling toll-free at (866) 588-0600.

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Pittsburgh Automotive Jack Stands Lawsuit Overview

Pittsburgh Automotive Jack Stands lawsuits focus on claims against Harbor Freight for defective jack stands that can suddenly collapse under weight.

The primary allegations involve manufacturing defects, including faulty pawl mechanisms and welding issues that compromise user safety.

Multiple recalls have affected hundreds of thousands of units across the 3-ton, 6-ton, and 12-ton models. The NHTSA has issued safety warnings regarding the serious risk of vehicle collapse that can lead to severe injuries or death.

Latest Pittsburgh Automotive Jack Stands Lawsuit Updates

March 2025 – Harbor Freight faces ongoing litigation following reports of additional jack stand failures despite multiple recall efforts. Recent cases filed in federal court allege that the company's quality control measures remain inadequate even after previous recalls.

November 2024 – Class action certification hearings have begun in multiple jurisdictions as plaintiffs seek to consolidate claims against Harbor Freight related to both the original defective jack stands and their allegedly defective replacements [1].

July 2024 – NHTSA announced expanded investigations into automotive support equipment manufacturing standards following continued reports of jack stand failures across multiple brands, with particular focus on the Pittsburgh line [2].

FDA Reports and Statistics

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has documented numerous incidents related to Pittsburgh Automotive Jack Stands [3]:

Over 1.7 million Pittsburgh Automotive 3 Ton and 6 Ton Heavy Duty Steel Jack Stands were recalled in 2020
Injuries have been reported due to this issue
Specific numbers of serious injuries or fatalities related to the defective stands are not detailed in the NHTSA's publicly available data

Pittsburgh Automotive Jack Stands Injuries & Side Effects

The sudden collapse of Pittsburgh Automotive Jack Stands has resulted in numerous serious injuries to consumers attempting vehicle repairs or maintenance.

Crushing Injuries: Severe trauma from vehicles suddenly dropping onto extremities or torso
Fractures and Broken Bones: Particularly in hands, feet, legs, and ribs due to impact or entrapment
Head and Brain Trauma: Injuries sustained from falling beneath vehicles or impact from collapsing equipment
Lacerations and Contusions: Cuts and bruising from contact with vehicle components during collapse
Fatal Injuries: Multiple reported deaths resulting from catastrophic jack stand failures

Do You Qualify for a Pittsburgh Automotive Jack Stands Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a Pittsburgh Automotive Jack Stands lawsuit if:

You purchased Pittsburgh Automotive Jack Stands with part numbers 61196, 61197, 56371, or other recalled models
You experienced injuries or property damage due to a jack stand failure or collapse
The incident occurred while using the jack stands as intended and following safety guidelines
You sought medical treatment for injuries sustained in the incident
You can provide documentation of your purchase and ownership of the affected jack stands

Evidence Required for a Pittsburgh Automotive Jack Stands Lawsuit

To successfully pursue a Pittsburgh Automotive Jack Stands claim, the following evidence is typically needed:

Purchase receipt or proof of ownership of the affected jack stands
Photos of the failed jack stands showing the defect if possible
Medical records documenting injuries sustained from the jack stand failure
Documentation of property damage to your vehicle or other items
Witness statements if anyone observed the incident
Records of all related medical expenses and lost income

Damages You Can Recover

Victims of Pittsburgh Automotive Jack Stand failures may be eligible to recover compensation for:

Medical expenses for treatment of injuries, including future medical needs
Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
Pain and suffering, both physical and emotional
Property damage to vehicles or other equipment
Disability or permanent impairment resulting from injuries
Punitive damages in cases of egregious manufacturer negligence

Pittsburgh Automotive Jack Stands Recall Information

Harbor Freight has issued multiple recalls affecting Pittsburgh Automotive Jack Stands:

May 2020: Initial recall of approximately 1.7 million 3-ton and 6-ton jack stands (part numbers 61196, 61197, and 56371) due to pawl mechanism failures
July 2020: Expanded recall to include replacement jack stands due to welding defects
Models Affected: Pittsburgh 3-Ton Heavy Duty Steel Jack Stands, Pittsburgh 6-Ton Heavy Duty Steel Jack Stands, and Pittsburgh 12-Ton Heavy Duty Steel Jack Stands
NHTSA Campaign Number: 20E-027 for the initial recall, with subsequent expansions

Harbor Freight is offering refunds or store credit equal to the "shelf price" of the recalled jack stands when returned to any Harbor Freight location.

Statute of Limitations for Pittsburgh Automotive Jack Stands Lawsuits

The time limit for filing a Pittsburgh Automotive Jack Stands lawsuit varies by state, typically ranging from 1-3 years from the date of injury.

Some states follow a "discovery rule," which starts the statute of limitations when you discovered or reasonably should have discovered that your injury was caused by the defective jack stands.

For product liability claims specifically:

Most states allow 2-3 years from the date of injury
Some states have shorter periods of just 1 year
A few states permit up to 6 years for filing claims

Given these variations and complexities, it's crucial to consult with an experienced attorney as soon as possible to ensure your claim is filed within the applicable deadline [6].

FAQs

1. What caused the Pittsburgh Automotive Jack Stands to be recalled?

The jack stands were recalled because the pawl mechanisms could disengage from the extension lifting post under a shift in weight, causing them to suddenly collapse. Later, replacement stands were also recalled due to welding defects that could cause failure under load.

2. How do I know if my Pittsburgh Jack Stands are part of the recall?

Check the part number, which can be found on the label. Affected part numbers include 61196, 61197, and 56371. The 3-ton stands have numbers on the label at the top, while 6-ton units have numbers printed in the yellow section of the label on the base.

3. What should I do with my recalled Pittsburgh Jack Stands?

Stop using them immediately and return them to any Harbor Freight Tools location where they can be exchanged for a gift card equal to the "shelf price" of the stands. Do not attempt to repair or continue using recalled jack stands.

4. How much compensation might I receive from a Pittsburgh Jack Stands lawsuit?

Compensation varies based on factors including severity of injuries, medical expenses, lost income, and long-term impact. Settlements may range from thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars depending on individual circumstances and damages proven.

5. How often do recalls occur for automotive equipment?

Recalls can occur periodically due to safety concerns. Companies work with regulatory agencies to address and prevent such issues.

6. What should I do if I am contacted by the manufacturer after filing a lawsuit?

Do not communicate directly with the manufacturer without consulting your attorney, as any statements you make could affect your case. Refer all communications to your legal representative.

7. Can I file a lawsuit if I have already received a refund for the recalled Pittsburgh jack stands?

Yes, receiving a refund does not prevent you from seeking additional compensation for any harm or damages caused by the defective product.

8. Is there a class action lawsuit against Harbor Freight for the Pittsburgh Jack Stands?

Multiple class action lawsuits have been filed, but our firm is primarily handling individual cases to maximize recovery for clients with specific injuries. Class actions typically address economic losses rather than personal injuries.

9. How long will a Pittsburgh Jack Stands lawsuit take?

The timeline varies depending on case complexity, evidence strength, and whether the case settles or goes to trial. Some cases resolve within 1-2 years, while more complex litigation may take longer.

10. What does it cost to hire an attorney for a Pittsburgh Jack Stands lawsuit?

Our firm works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront. We only collect a fee if we secure compensation for you through a settlement or verdict.

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Take Action Now: Time-Sensitive Legal Claims

If you or a loved one has suffered injuries due to defective Pittsburgh Automotive Jack Stands, time is limited to pursue legal action.

Most states impose strict deadlines of just 1-3 years for filing product liability claims, and waiting too long may permanently bar your right to compensation.

At Schmidt & Clark, LLP, we offer:

Free, confidential case evaluations
No upfront costs or attorney fees
Payment only if we win your case
Nationwide representation by experienced product liability attorneys

Our team has successfully represented numerous clients injured by defective products and understands the physical, emotional, and financial toll these injuries can take on victims and their families.

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