Yamaha Rhino Personal Injury and Wrongful Death News
March 2009
The Consumer Product Safety Commission finds that at least 46 deaths have resulted from use of the Rhino, and instructs Yamaha to take action. The company suspends sales of the 450 & 660 models, and invites customers to bring them back for “free repairs.” Although Yamaha and the CPSC agree not to term the program a “recall,” Yamaha acknowledges that: “You should not operate your Rhino until it is modified with these repair parts.”
February 2009
Due to the overwhelming number of Rhino injury cases filed in district courts across the country, a federal judge agreed to consolidate the complaints in a federal court in Kentucky, using a procedure called Multijurisdictional Litigation (MDL). However, this only applies to cases that are pending in federal court. You still need your own attorney, who can advise you whether you should keep your case local or take into the MDL. If you live in Arkansas or Tennessee and you have been injured by a Yamaha Rhino, you need immediate legal support from Clark Mason Attorneys.
November 2008
The CPSC responds to reports that numerous deaths have been linked to the use of Rhinos with and without doors, and launches an investigation.
October 2007
Rollover accidents have continued, despite Yamaha’s 2006 letter. Riders have lost limbs and lives. Yamaha produces the Rhino 700, a new model with small doors. The company also offers add-on doors for owners of the previous models.
September 2006
Yamaha sends a letter to the owners of Rhino UTV’s warning that the vehicle is known to tip over when turning. However, the tone of the letter puts the blame on Rhino owners!
December 2005
Consumers want a more affordable option, so Yamaha provides a lower-cost model.
August 2003
The new Yamaha Rhino UTV (Utility Terrain Vehicle) is immediately popular with off-roading enthusiasts.
