Table Of Contents
- Zero Motorcycles Lawsuit Overview
- Latest Zero Motorcycles Lawsuit Updates
- NHTSA Reports and Statistics
- Zero Motorcycles Injuries & Side Effects
- Do You Qualify for a Zero Motorcycles Lawsuit?
- Zero Motorcycles Recall Information
- Statute of Limitations for Zero Motorcycles Lawsuits
- FAQs
- 1. What specific defects have been identified in recalled Zero motorcycles?
- 2. How do I know if my Zero motorcycle is part of a recall?
- 3. What compensation amounts have been awarded in Zero Motorcycles lawsuits?
- 4. Can I still ride my Zero motorcycle if it’s been recalled?
- 5. Who is responsible for covering the cost of repairs for recalled Zero motorcycles?
- 6. How long does a Zero Motorcycles lawsuit typically take to resolve?
- 7. Can I file a lawsuit if my Zero motorcycle was recalled but didn’t cause an injury?
- 8. What is the role of the NHTSA in Zero motorcycle recalls?
- 9. Are there any criminal charges associated with Zero Motorcycles defects?
- 10. Can I join an existing class action lawsuit against Zero Motorcycles?
- Take Action Now: Time-Sensitive Legal Claims
Zero Motorcycles Lawsuit Overview
Zero Motorcycles lawsuits focus on serious injuries resulting from alleged defects in their electric motorcycles. Primary allegations against the manufacturer involve defective DC-DC converters, brake switches, and structural integrity issues. Multiple recalls have been issued, including a 2020 recall affecting certain SR/F and SR/S models due to potentially dangerous brake switch failures that could lead to accidents. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has documented these safety concerns in official recall notices.Read Also
: Husqvarna Motorcycle Recall Lawsuit
Latest Zero Motorcycles Lawsuit Updates
As of March 27, 2025 – Ongoing litigation against Zero Motorcycles continues, including a class action filed in April 2023 for product defects affecting various models, with no specific update tied to July 23, 2024.November 30, 2020 – Zero initiated a recall for 2020 SR/F and SR/S motorcycles with defective front brake switches that can fail due to water exposure, creating a significant crash risk when brake lights fail to illuminate and cruise control systems fail to disengage.October 26, 2020 – Zero Motorcycle Inc. began recalling multiple 2021 models (SR, S, DSR, DS, FX, FXS) equipped with defective DC-DC converters with insufficient power output margins, potentially causing simultaneous failure of anti-lock braking systems, instruments, lights, and indicators.July 27, 2017 – A stunt woman and her husband filed a lawsuit against Zero Motorcycles after she allegedly suffered a traumatic brain injury when a Zero FX motorcycle broke into multiple pieces during a Marvel Universe Live performance at the United Center in 2015. The 10-count suit also seeks damages from Feld Motor Sports, which purchased the motorcycles for use in the Marvel Universe Live tour and was negligent in their maintenance, according to the lawsuit.
NHTSA Reports and Statistics
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has documented:
- Multiple recalls affecting hundreds of Zero motorcycles between 2020-2021
- Critical safety issues affecting braking systems in 2020 SR/F and SR/S models
- Potential electrical failures reported in 2021 models including SR, S, DSR, DS, FX, and FXS
- Zero motorcycles have been involved in at least one documented case of serious injury, a traumatic brain injury from a 2015 incident tied to a 2016 recall
Zero Motorcycles Injuries & Side Effects
Zero motorcycle defects have been associated with several serious injuries:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries: As documented in the lawsuit filed by stunt performer Sarah Whitmore Smage
- Crash-Related Trauma: Due to sudden brake light failure and non-disengaging cruise control
- Collision Injuries: Resulting from electrical system failures affecting ABS, instrumentation, and lighting
- Catastrophic Accidents: Caused by structural integrity failures as alleged in the Marvel Live show incident
Do You Qualify for a Zero Motorcycles Lawsuit?
You may qualify for a Zero Motorcycles lawsuit if:
- You owned or rode a recalled Zero motorcycle model (including 2020 SR/F, SR/S, or 2021 SR, S, DSR, DS, FX, FXS)
- You experienced a motorcycle failure or accident related to brake switch issues, DC-DC converter problems, or structural failures
- The incident resulted in injuries requiring medical treatment or hospitalization
- You can provide documentation linking your injuries to the defective motorcycle
Evidence Required for a Zero Motorcycles Lawsuit
- Medical records documenting your injuries
- Expert testimony linking the motorcycle’s failure to your accident
- Documentation of the motorcycle’s maintenance records
- Witness testimonies, if available
- Any video or photographic evidence of the accident
Damages You Can Recover
- Medical expenses for treatment of injuries
- Lost wages due to inability to work
- Pain and suffering compensation
- Potential punitive damages against Zero Motorcycles
Zero Motorcycles Recall Information
2020 Recall:
- Models affected: 2020 SR/F and SR/S motorcycles
- Issue: Defective front brake switches vulnerable to water exposure
- Safety risk: Failure to illuminate brake lights when braking and failure to disengage cruise control
- Recall date: November 30, 2020
2021 Models Recall:
- Models affected: 2021 Zero SR, S, DSR, DS, FX, and FXS
- Issue: Defective DC-DC converter with insufficient power output margin
- Safety risk: Simultaneous failure of ABS, instruments, lights, and indicators
- Recall date: October 26, 2020 (for 2021 models)
Statute of Limitations for Zero Motorcycles Lawsuits
The statute of limitations for filing a personal injury or product liability lawsuit varies by state but generally ranges from one to three years from the date of injury. It is crucial to consult with an attorney as soon as possible after an injury to ensure your claim is filed within the applicable timeframe.Related Articles:
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See all related product liability lawsuits our attorneys covered so far.
FAQs
1. What specific defects have been identified in recalled Zero motorcycles?
Zero motorcycles have been recalled for defective front brake switches that fail due to water exposure and DC-DC converters with insufficient power output margins that can cause critical safety systems to fail simultaneously.
2. How do I know if my Zero motorcycle is part of a recall?
You can check if your motorcycle is affected by contacting Zero Motorcycles directly or visiting the NHTSA website with your motorcycle’s VIN number to search for applicable recalls.
3. What compensation amounts have been awarded in Zero Motorcycles lawsuits?
While specific settlement amounts are often confidential, cases involving traumatic brain injuries and permanent disabilities like the one filed by stunt performer Sarah Whitmore Smage typically seek substantial damages.
4. Can I still ride my Zero motorcycle if it’s been recalled?
It is strongly advised not to ride a recalled motorcycle until the defect has been addressed by an authorized dealer or service center, as continuing to ride could put you at serious risk of injury.
5. Who is responsible for covering the cost of repairs for recalled Zero motorcycles?
Zero Motorcycles is required to provide repairs for recalled vehicles at no cost to the owner through authorized dealers.
6. How long does a Zero Motorcycles lawsuit typically take to resolve?
The timeline varies based on case complexity, but product liability cases typically take between 1-3 years to reach settlement or trial.
7. Can I file a lawsuit if my Zero motorcycle was recalled but didn’t cause an injury?
While you’re entitled to have the recalled issue fixed at no cost, you typically need to have suffered damages or injuries to pursue a lawsuit for compensation.
8. What is the role of the NHTSA in Zero motorcycle recalls?
The NHTSA oversees the recall process, ensures manufacturers properly notify customers, and monitors the effectiveness of recall remedies.
9. Are there any criminal charges associated with Zero Motorcycles defects?
Currently, there are no known criminal charges against Zero Motorcycles related to these defects, as the cases involve civil product liability claims.
10. Can I join an existing class action lawsuit against Zero Motorcycles?
While the current cases appear to be individual lawsuits, you should consult with an attorney to determine if class action options exist or if an individual lawsuit is more appropriate for your situation.
Take Action Now: Time-Sensitive Legal Claims
Time is limited to pursue legal action against Zero Motorcycles for injuries related to their defective products. In most states, you have only 1-3 years from the date of injury to file your claim before being permanently barred from seeking compensation.Schmidt & Clark, LLP, LLP offers:
- Free, confidential consultations to evaluate your case
- No upfront costs or fees for our legal services
- Payment only if we win your case and secure compensation
Don’t wait until it’s too late to seek justice for your injuries. The sooner you act, the stronger your case will be.[START YOUR FREE CASE REVIEW NOW]