Fatal US accident involving 2003 Dodge Ram linked to ongoing Takata airbag recall

A traffic fatality in the United States (US) involving a 2003 Dodge Ram pickup truck was linked to an ongoing Takata airbag recall.

According to Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA), “an occupant in the front passenger seat, who was also the vehicle’s owner, succumbed to a serious injury consistent with those observed in previous Takata inflator fatalities.”

On that note, FCA extended its sympathies to the family and friends of the person involved in the fatal accident.

“The company extends its deepest sympathies to the family and friends of the customer whose life was lost in the May tragedy. It is the fourth such incident known to involve an FCA-brand vehicle,” FCA wrote in a press release.

“Six recall notices were sent to this customer’s home address. All went unheeded,” the Stellantis-owned brand clarified.

That said, FCA has issued a “do-not-drive” order for some 29,000 units of 2003 Dodge Ram trucks said to be still on US roads today. Owners and custodians of the affected models are requested “to immediately stop driving” the said vehicles and “contact a dealer or the company to determine their recall status.”

The company will provide alternative transportation, also free, to help people get to and from dealerships, as needed.

Photo from Stellantis

Also read: 

Dodge revives Durango SRT Hellcat in US

ANG holds first-ever Dodge Drive

Electrified muscle: Dodge reveals Charger Daytona SRT Concept