Polaris Sportsman Lawsuit | Latest Updates

Polaris Industries is recalling its Sportsman 850 and 1000 ATVs from model years 2015 and 2016 over a defect that has been linked to at least 47 fires and 4 burn injuries to riders.
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C.L. Mike Schmidt Published by C.L. Mike Schmidt

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Polaris Sportsman Lawsuit Overview

Polaris Industries has recalled Sportsman 850 and 1000 ATVs due to fire hazards. The primary allegations involve defects that cause the right-side panel heat shield to melt and exhaust springs to stretch, potentially causing fires and burns to riders. At least 47 fires and 4 burn injuries have been reported. The U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued warnings about these hazards.

Latest Polaris Sportsman Lawsuit Updates

January 5, 2023 – Polaris initiated a recall of approximately 3,800 model year 2020-2023 Polaris Sportsman 1000 S and Scrambler 1000 S ATVs due to fire hazards related to electrostatic discharge outside the fuel tank that can ignite fuel spills while refueling.

March 28, 2017 – CPSC announced a recall affecting all 2015 and 2016 Polaris Sportsman 850 and 1000 ATVs due to melting heat shields and stretched exhaust springs that could cause fires and burns [1].

April 2016Polaris recalled about 133,000 RZR off-road vehicles (ROVs) after at least 160 reports of fires, including one that resulted in the death of a 15-year-old girl.

October 2015 – A limited recall involving 53,000 RZRs was announced.

“The firm has received 16 reports of fire, including one report of personal injury and one report of property damage, outside the U.S.,” CPSC said.

CPSC Reports and Statistics

According to CPSC reports, Polaris has received 16 reports of fire related to the 2020-2023 Sportsman 1000 S and Scrambler 1000 S ATVs, including one report of personal injury and one report of property damage outside the U.S [2]. For the 2015-2016 models, there have been at least 47 fires and 4 burn injuries reported to riders. The CPSC also documented at least 160 reports of fires in the related RZR off-road vehicles recall from April 2016, which included one fatality of a 15-year-old girl [3].

Polaris Sportsman Injuries & Risks

Polaris Sportsman defects have resulted in serious injuries to riders, including:

  • Burns: Riders have suffered burn injuries due to fires caused by melting heat shields and exhaust leaks
  • Fire-Related Injuries: At least 4 burn injuries were reported from the 47 fires linked to the defective ATVs
  • Property Damage: At least one report of property damage was noted outside the U.S.

Do You Qualify for a Polaris Sportsman Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a Polaris Sportsman lawsuit if:

  • You owned or used a recalled Polaris Sportsman model (2015-2016 Sportsman 850 or 1000, or 2020-2023 Sportsman 1000 S and Scrambler 1000 S)
  • You experienced injuries such as burns due to fire hazards associated with the vehicle
  • Your injuries required medical treatment
  • You can provide documentation linking your injuries to the Polaris ATV defect

Evidence Required for a Polaris Sportsman Lawsuit

The original text does not contain specific information about evidence requirements for a lawsuit.

Damages You Can Recover

The original text does not contain specific information about recoverable damages.

Polaris Sportsman Recall Information

January 5, 2023 Recall:

  • Affects approximately 3,800 model year 2020-2023 Polaris Sportsman 1000 S and Scrambler 1000 S ATVs
  • Recalled due to fire hazards from electrostatic discharge outside the fuel tank
  • Polaris will instruct dealers to install new fuel filler neck clamps and, if needed, a fill neck cover

March 28, 2017 Recall:

  • Affects all 2015 and 2016 Polaris Sportsman 850 and 1000 ATVs
  • Recalled due to melting heat shields and stretching exhaust springs causing fire hazards
  • Free repairs offered through Polaris dealerships

The recalled Polaris ATVs were sold at Polaris dealers nationwide:

  • 2020-2023 models: Sold from July 2019 through October 2022 for between $15,000 and $17,800
  • 2015-2016 models: Sold from May 2014 to March 2017 for between $8,500 and $15,000

Statute of Limitations for Polaris Sportsman Lawsuits

While the original text doesn’t provide specific statute of limitations information for Polaris Sportsman lawsuits, it’s important to note that product liability claims are time-sensitive. Statutes of limitations vary by state, and your eligibility to file a claim depends on when your injury occurred.

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FAQs

1. Can I still file a lawsuit if I no longer own the Polaris Sportsman?

Yes, you can still file a lawsuit if you no longer own the vehicle, provided you experienced injuries or financial losses due to the defects while you owned it. Evidence of ownership and the defect’s impact is crucial.

2. What should I do if I experience a defect-related incident with my Polaris Sportsman?

Document the incident thoroughly, including taking photos and notes of the defect and any resulting damages or injuries. Seek medical attention if necessary and consult a lawyer to discuss your legal options.

3. How does a recall impact the value of my Polaris Sportsman?

A recall can negatively impact the resale value of your Polaris Sportsman, as potential buyers may be wary of purchasing a vehicle known to have defects. Compensation claims can include losses due to diminished value.

4. What are the typical steps involved in the discovery phase of a lawsuit?

The discovery phase involves exchanging information and evidence between the parties. This can include depositions, interrogatories (written questions), document requests, and expert witness evaluations.

5. What should I do if I purchased a Polaris ATV affected by the recall?

If you purchased a Polaris ATV that is affected by a recall, you should stop using it immediately and contact a Polaris dealer to schedule a free repair.

6. What models are included in the Polaris Sportsman recalls?

The recalls affect all 2015 and 2016 Polaris Sportsman 850 and 1000 ATVs, as well as 2020-2023 Polaris Sportsman 1000 S and Scrambler 1000 S ATVs. The word “Polaris” is printed on the front grill and “Sportsman 850” or “Sportsman 1000” is printed on the side of the steering column.

Choose our lawyers

Have you or a loved one been unreasonably injured by a dangerous or defective consumer product?

Time is limited to pursue legal action for injuries related to Polaris Sportsman defects. Our services include:

  • Free, confidential consultations
  • No upfront costs or fees
  • Payment only if we win your case

Free Case Evaluation: If you were injured by a Polaris Sportsman or RZR, you should contact our law firm immediately. You may be entitled to a settlement by filing a suit and we can help.

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Reference:

  1. https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2017/Polaris-Recalls-Sportsman-850-and-1000-All-Terrain-Vehicles
  2. https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2023/Polaris-Recalls-Sportsman-and-Scrambler-1000-S-All-Terrain-Vehicles-Due-to-Fire-Hazard-Recall-Alert
  3. https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2016/Polaris-Recalls-RZR-Recreational-Off-Highway-Vehicles-Due

 

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