Chicago, IL (October 3rd, 2024) – John Deere, a well-known agricultural machinery manufacturer based out of Moline, Illinois, has issued a significant safety recall affecting over 163,000 compact utility tractors worldwide. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s recall notice, a dangerous defect in the front bell crank can cause the affected tractors to lose braking capabilities, increasing the risk of a crash.
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The recall was announced on September 26, 2024, after the company received reports of brake linkage failures that caused four accidents, resulting in one hospitalization, two impact injuries, and minor property damage.
Which Models Are Included in the John Deere Compact Utility Tractor Recall?
The John Deere tractor recall targets three specific models: 1023E, 1025R, and 2025R. The impacted green and yellow tractors may feature opened or closed operator systems, and the model number, along with “John Deere” will be printed on the hood.
Approximately 148,000 of the recalled tractors were sold across the United States between November 2017 and July 2024, and more than 16,000 were sold in Canada.
Consumers can check to see if their tractors are included in the John Deere brake linkage recall by going to the company’s website and entering their serial number. To find your serial number, look on the frame on the front right side of your tractor, near the engine.
What to Do if You Have a Recalled John Deere Compact Utility Tractor
If you have one of the affected models in your garage or shed, you should take immediate action to prevent accidents and serious injuries. Deere recommends that you:
- Stop using the tractor immediately.
- Contact an authorized John Deere dealer to schedule a free repair.
- If you are unable to transport the recalled John Deere tractor, arrangements can be made for on-site repairs.
John Deere is currently reaching out to known purchasers to notify them of the dangerous defect. Taking proactive measures to warn consumers and remedy the hazard does not absolve the manufacturer of liability, however. People who are injured because of the defective part still have the right to file a lawsuit against the company under Illinois product liability laws.
How Can John Deere’s Brake Linkage Defect Harm Consumers?
If the front bell crank in the tractor’s brake linkage fails, your John Deere could lose the ability to slow down or stop effectively, and you could lose control of the tractor. This poses a wide range of issues that can cause harm to you, your loved ones, bystanders, and even your animals.
If brake failure causes you to lose control of your tractor on a steep slope, for instance, the tractor could roll over and take you with it. You could suffer crushing injuries, broken bones, or severe catastrophic injuries like traumatic brain injuries or spinal cord injuries.
Even if the brake failure occurs on level terrain, the inability to slow down or stop could cause you to collide with or run over other objects, animals, or people. Victims could suffer TBIs, spine injuries, bone fractures, internal injuries, and even amputations.
What Should You Do If You or Your Loved One Suffered Injuries Because of a Defective John Deere Compact Utility Tractor?
If you or your loved one suffered injuries due to a defective John Deere Compact Utility Tractor, there are several important steps you should take to ensure your well-being and protect your rights.
- Seek Medical Attention: First and foremost, ensure that you or your loved one receives proper medical care as soon as possible after the accident. If your injuries are severe, dial 9-1-1 and get EMS on the way, or go to your nearest emergency room. Be sure to document all injuries, treatments, and medical expenses related to the accident.
- Preserve Evidence: Do not alter or repair your tractor. Take photos and/or videos of the tractor and the location where the accident happened, focusing on any visible defects or damage.
- Report the Incident: Contact John Deere to report the incident. Then file a complaint with the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
- Document Everything: Keep a detailed record of the incident, including date, time, and circumstances. Maintain a log of all medical treatments, missed work days, and other related expenses.
- Consult With an Attorney: Speak with a product liability attorney at Ankin Law in Chicago. We will:
- Evaluate your case
- Advise you on your legal rights and options
- Determine if you have grounds for a lawsuit
- Guide you through the legal process if you decide to pursue compensation
- Don’t Accept Early Settlement Offers: Be cautious about accepting any settlement offers from John Deere or their insurance company without getting legal advice from our product liability attorneys. Early offers may not fully cover your long-term medical needs or other damages. Our lawyers will assess your immediate injuries and the long-term impact your injury will likely have on your health, work capacity, and quality of life.
- Be Mindful of Time Limits: Be aware that there are statutes of limitations for filing product liability claims. These vary by state. If your accident happened in Chicago or elsewhere in Illinois, you generally will have just two years to take legal action. Consulting with an attorney promptly can help ensure you don’t miss important deadlines.
Contact Our Attorneys for Free Legal Advice Regarding Your John Deere Accident
If your defective John Deere Compact Utility Tractor caused you to suffer injuries in a crash, contact our law firm right away to discuss your legal options. If we can prove that a product defect caused your injuries, you may be entitled to substantial compensation. Our attorneys offer free consultations, and there are no upfront costs if you decide to hire our team to help you file a lawsuit against John Deere. You’ll only pay attorney fees if we win your case, and you recover compensation for your losses.
