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Federal regulators have launched a preliminary evaluation into more than 1.2 million Ford vehicles after side airbags deployed during crashes reportedly left multiple occupants with severe burns requiring medical treatment.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) opened the probe last Friday.
The notice affects 2021-2026 model Ford Explorer vehicles, including Explorer Police Interceptors used by law enforcement.
Side airbag deployments reportedly caused second and third-degree burns to front-seat occupants, regulators said.
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“Consumers have described that during a crash involving deployment of the seat-mounted side airbag, they sustained burn injuries,” the NHTSA said.
“Burn injuries have been reported for both drivers and front passengers and were typically diagnosed as second or third-degree burns requiring medical treatment.”
Some of the complaints received have reported injuries to law enforcement officers riding in Ford Explorer Police Interceptors.
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Authorities have documented 11 incident reports involving the alleged defect, resulting in 10 reported injuries.
No fatalities have been reported.
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The NHTSA said it received eight public complaints from people reporting incidents, along with four early warning reports.
The preliminary evaluation marks an initial step in the agency’s investigation and could lead to further scrutiny, including a potential recall, depending on what regulators find.
