Polaris Snowmobile Recall Lawsuit | 2025 Latest Updates

Polaris Snowmobile Recall Lawsuit Overview

Polaris snowmobile lawsuits focus on defects causing fire hazards in several models, with multiple recalls affecting over 160,000 vehicles.

Primary allegations against the manufacturer include improperly secured fuel hoses, brake system overheating issues, and electrostatic discharge problems inside fuel tanks.

At least 164 reports of heat/brake drag and 22 reports of fire have been documented for the MATRYX models alone, while 30 reports of fuel tank bursting incidents have been reported across other models.

Latest Polaris Snowmobile Recall Lawsuit Updates

• May 4, 2023 – Polaris recalls approximately 23,600 model year 2022-2023 MATRYX RMK KHAOS and PRO snowmobiles due to a brake system overheating issue that poses a significant fire hazard, with 22 fires already reported [1].
• November 17, 2022 – Polaris Industries recalls about 138,000 model year 2021-2023 MATRYX, 2015-2022 AXYS, and 2013-2014 Pro-Ride Snowmobiles after 30 reports of fuel tanks bursting, resulting in 16 fire incidents and one second-degree burn injury [2].
• July 16, 2020 – Polaris recalls multiple snowmobile models from 2015-2020 due to improperly secured fuel hoses creating a fire hazard, affecting popular models including Rush, Switchback, RMK, Voyager, and Indy.

FDA Reports and Statistics

According to Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) records, Polaris snowmobile recalls have impacted approximately 160,000 vehicles in recent years. The company has documented:

• 164 reports of heat/brake drag issues in the MATRYX models alone
• 22 confirmed fire incidents related to brake system overheating
• 30 instances of fuel tank bursting across various models
• 16 fire incidents related to fuel tank issues
• At least 1 confirmed injury (second-degree burn)

Polaris Snowmobile Injuries & Side Effects

The defects in recalled Polaris snowmobiles can lead to several serious injuries and consequences for riders and bystanders.

• Burns and Fire Injuries: Ranging from minor to severe, including second-degree burns
• Property Damage: Destruction of snowmobile, surrounding property, and structures
• Crash Injuries: Resulting from sudden mechanical failure or fire while operating
• Smoke Inhalation: Potential respiratory damage from toxic fumes when components ignite

Do You Qualify for a Polaris Snowmobile Recall Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a Polaris snowmobile lawsuit if:

• You own or purchased one of the recalled Polaris snowmobile models
• You experienced a fire, mechanical failure, or injury related to the recalled defect
• Your property was damaged due to a fire caused by one of the recalled snowmobiles
• You can provide documentation of your snowmobile’s model and purchase

Evidence Required for a Polaris Snowmobile Lawsuit

When pursuing a claim related to a defective Polaris snowmobile, you’ll need:

• Proof of purchase and ownership documentation
• Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) showing your snowmobile is part of a recall
• Medical records documenting any injuries sustained
• Photographic evidence of damage or injuries
• Repair estimates or receipts for damages

Damages You Can Recover

In a successful Polaris snowmobile recall lawsuit, you may be entitled to:

• Medical expenses for treatment of injuries
• Property damage compensation
• Lost wages if injuries prevented you from working
• Pain and suffering
• Punitive damages in cases of extreme negligence

Polaris Recall Information

May 2023 Recall: Affects approximately 23,600 model year 2022-2023 MATRYX RMK KHAOS and PRO snowmobiles due to brake system overheating issues.

November 2022 Recall: Affects approximately 138,000 model year 2021-2023 MATRYX, 2015-2022 AXYS, and 2013-2014 Pro-Ride Snowmobiles due to fuel tank fire hazards.

July 2020 Recall: Multiple models affected including [3]:

• 2015-2016 Polaris Rush
• 2015-2016 Polaris Switchback
• 2017-2020 Polaris RMK
• 2017-2020 Polaris Rush
• 2017-2020 Polaris Switchback
• 2017-2020 Polaris Voyager
• 2019-2020 Polaris Indy

Statute of Limitations for Polaris Snowmobile Lawsuits

The time to file a claim varies by state, typically ranging from 1-6 years from the date of injury or discovery of defect.

It’s critical to consult with an attorney promptly as delays could forfeit your right to compensation.

Related Articles:

• Polaris Sportsman ATV Lawsuit
• Polaris Slingshot Recall Claim
• Polaris RZR XP Recall Lawsuit

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I check if my Polaris snowmobile is included in a recall?

You can verify if your Polaris snowmobile is subject to a recall by using Polaris’ search tool on their website. Simply enter your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), search by vehicle information, or select a vehicle in My Garage to determine whether your vehicle is affected by a safety recall [4].

2. What should I do if my Polaris snowmobile has been recalled?

If your snowmobile is subject to a recall, immediately stop using it and contact your local Polaris dealer or Polaris directly to schedule a free repair. The specific fix will depend on which recall affects your model, but repairs are provided at no cost to owners.

3. Can I file a lawsuit if I didn’t suffer any physical injuries but incurred financial losses?

Yes, you can file a lawsuit for financial losses related to the defect, such as repair costs, loss of use, or diminished value of the vehicle. Consult with a lawyer to discuss your specific situation.

4. How do expert witnesses contribute to a Polaris snowmobile recall lawsuit?

Expert witnesses provide testimony to support your case by explaining the defect, how it caused the accident, and the impact on your safety. They are crucial for establishing liability.

5. What are the potential outcomes of Polaris snowmobile recall lawsuits?

Outcomes can include settlements, where Polaris agrees to compensate plaintiffs, or verdicts after a trial. The amounts and terms vary based on the specifics of each case.

6. How long does a typical Polaris snowmobile recall lawsuit take to resolve?

The timeline varies significantly depending on case complexity. Simple claims might settle within 6-12 months, while complex cases involving serious injuries or multiple plaintiffs could take 2-3 years or more to reach resolution.

7. What specific defects have been identified in recalled Polaris snowmobiles?

Identified defects include: brake systems that can overheat in the caliper/pad/brake rotor area; electrostatic discharge inside fuel tanks causing vapors to ignite; and improperly secured fuel hoses that create fire hazards during operation.

8. Is there a class action lawsuit against Polaris for these snowmobile recalls?

While individual lawsuits have been filed, whether a class action exists depends on current litigation status. Your attorney can advise whether joining an existing class action or filing an individual claim is more advantageous for your specific circumstances.

Get A Free Polaris Snowmobile Recall Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers

Time is limited to pursue legal action regarding Polaris snowmobile defects. Most states have a statute of limitations of only 2-3 years from the date of injury or discovery of the defect.

The Product Liability Litigation Group at Schmidt & Clark, LLP offers:

• Free, confidential consultations for all potential clients
• No upfront costs or fees to begin your case
• Payment only if we successfully recover compensation for you

If you or a loved one has been injured by a recalled Polaris Snowmobile, you should contact our law firm immediately. You may be entitled to a settlement by filing a suit and we can help.

References:

1. https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2023/Polaris-Recalls-MATRYX-RMK-KHAOS-and-PRO-Snowmobiles-Due-to-Fire-Injury-Hazard-Recall-Alert
2. https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2023/Polaris-Industries-Recalls-MATRYX-AXYS-and-Pro-Ride-Snowmobiles-Due-to-Fire-Hazard-Recall-Alert
3. https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2020/Polaris-Recalls-Snowmobiles-Due-to-Fire-Hazard-Recall-Alert
4. https://www.polaris.com/en-us/off-road-recalls/