Intimidator and Mahindra Utility Vehicles (UTVs) Recalled Over Crash Hazard

Product Recalls - June 16, 2024

Intimidator and Mahindra Branded Utility Vehicles (UTVs) Recalled Over Possibility That The Universal Joint Can Fail and Sever Brake Line

Intimidator and Mahindra Utility Vehicles (UTVs) Recalled Over Crash Hazard

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS (June 16, 2024) – A large number of Intimidator and Mahindra branded utility task vehicles (UTVs) have been recalled because they pose a serious crash hazard.

The recall was issued on April 11, 2024 and affects an estimated 19,264 units. According to the recall notice, the main issue with the impacted UTVs is that the universal joint can fail and potentially sever the brake line.

This creates a serious crash hazard. There have been 40 reports of incidents so far, including 12 that directly involved brake lines. What follows is a list of affected models and their model years.

  • Intimidator GC1K Classic 2018-2023
  • Intimidator GC1K Crew 2019-2023
  • Intimidator GC1K Truck 2019-2023
  • Intimidator 750 Classic 2013-2023
  • Intimidator 750 Crew 2014-2022
  • Intimidator 750 Truck 2013-2022
  • Intimidator 800 Classic 2015-2018
  • Intimidator 800 Crew 2015-2018
  • Intimidator 800 Enforcer 2016-2018
  • Intimidator 1000 Diesel Classic 2013-2023
  • Intimidator 1000 Diesel Crew 2013-2022
  • Intimidator 1000 Diesel Truck 2013-2023
  • Intimidator Electric Classic 2013-2023
  • Mahindra Retriever 750 Classic 2015-2020
  • Mahindra Retriever 750 Crew 2015-2020
  • Mahindra Retriever 750 Truck 2015-2020
  • Mahindra TGB Classic 2015-2020
  • Mahindra TGB Crew 2015-2020
  • Mahindra Retriever 1000 Diesel Classic 2015-2020
  • Mahindra Retriever 1000 Diesel Crew 2015-2020
  • Mahindra Retriever 1000 Diesel Truck 2015-2020

The recalled units were sold in a variety of different colors. You should be able to find the model number of your unit on the front grill. Affected units were sold at authorized dealers nationwide from August 2013 to November 2023.

Liability For Accidents Involving UTVs

Utility task vehicles (UTVs) are increasingly used in various work and leisure capacities. The increased use of these vehicles has also come with a sharp rise in accidents. According to the CSPC, “Over the full 5-year period from 2016 through 2020, CPSC staff estimates that there were 526,900 emergency department-treated injuries associated with OHVs (ATVs, ROVs, and/or UTVs) in the United States. This corresponds to an estimated annual average of 105,400 emergency department-treated injuries over the period.” Victims of UTV accidents tend to suffer very serious injuries.

  • Head and Spine Injuries: Unlike passenger vehicles, UTVs typically are not enclosed. There is the possibility for the driver or passenger to be ejected and sustain catastrophic head and spinal cord injuries.
  • Fractures: A large number of UTV accidents have resulted in fractures. Commonly affected areas include the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis.
  • Internal Injuries: Many of the injuries associated with UTV accidents are not always immediately visible. Victims may sustain damage to internal organs in their liver, spleen, and lungs.

The company that manufactured a UTV could be liable for an accident. Companies that manufacture consumer products have a legal responsibility to ensure that they are reasonably safe. They must also warn about the non-obvious dangers associated with the use of their products. If a defect in a UTV caused an accident, the manufacturer could be held responsible through a product liability claim. Common defects with these vehicles include issues with the machines’ brakes. Many of these UTVs are also designed with high centers of gravity, which can make them much more susceptible to rollover accidents. It is important that several steps are taken after any UTV accident.

  • All medical records related to the accident should be preserved.
  • It should be determined if the vehicle involved was part of any recall.
  • The accident should be reported to the authorities so that an official record is created.
  • An experienced product liability attorney should be contacted.

The causes of UTV accidents are varied and can be complex. It is important that accident victims seek out medical care as early as possible. Even seemingly minor injuries can turn out to be much more severe. After getting medical treatment, it is always a good idea to consult with an experienced product liability attorney. An attorney can examine all of the unique facts of your case free of charge and let you know what your legal options are.

Getting Legal Help After A UTV Accident

We at Horwitz Horwitz & Associates were deeply concerned to read about the accidents involving Intimidator and Mahindra UTVs. It is our sincere hope that additional steps are taken to ensure that other UTVs will not have these same issues. Safety should always be a top concern for companies that are selling products to the general public.

Have you or someone that you care about been injured in a UTV accident? You may be entitled to financial compensation. Our team of product liability attorneys is here to help you. We are committed to getting accident victims fair and just compensation for their injuries. Whether you just have legal questions or are thinking about hiring an attorney, we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (312) 564-4256.