Chrysler, Jeep & Dodge Active Headrest Lawsuit Attorneys

Kershaw Talley Barlow is currently investigating claims from consumers nationwide who suffered injuries or accidents due to allegedly defective headrests in Chrysler, Jeep, and Dodge vehicles. Kershaw Talley Barlow is a trusted law firm that has recovered over $1 billion in compensation for clients. We’ve built a legacy litigating claims against some of the nation’s largest corporations and are working on behalf of consumers to recover losses caused by allegedly faulty headrests in certain Chrysler, Jeep, and Dodge vehicles. 

To discuss your rights and options, call (916) 520-6639 or contact us online for a FREE consultation.

On This Page:

• Why is There an AHR Headrest Lawsuit?
• Allegedly Defective Chrysler, Jeep & Dodge AHR Headrests Linked to Spontaneous Deployment
• Real Consumer Stories: When Safety Features Become Dangerous
• Potential Losses Associated with the Alleged AHR Headrest Defect
• Which Vehicles Are Impacted By Allegedly Defective AHR Headrests?
• Can I File a Lawsuit if I Have Been Injured by a Defective Headrest?
• Potential Compensation for Those Injured by Allegedly Defective Headrests

Why is There an AHR Headrest Lawsuit?

Chrysler, Jeep, and Dodge vehicles equipped with Active Head Restraint (AHR) systems can experience sudden and unexpected headrest deployment. The headrests deploy at 68 miles per hour and with a force of over 100 pounds. Drivers have reported that this spontaneous headrest deployments have caused injuries to the head and neck and in some cases, have led to accidents.

If you were injured or were in an accident as a result of a headrest that spontaneously deployed, you may be entitled to compensation.

Allegedly Defective Chrysler, Jeep & Dodge AHR Headrests Linked to Spontaneous Deployment

Some Chrysler, Jeep, and Dodge vehicles feature special headrests equipped with an Active Head Restraint (AHR) system. AHR headrests, which are located on driver and passenger seats, are designed to automatically deploy forward in the event of a rear-end collision, and purportedly function to “catch” an occupant’s head and lessen the impact of whiplash. They do this by launching forward at approximately 68 miles per hour and with over 100 pounds of force.

Unfortunately, AHR headrest systems have been linked to an allegedly dangerous defect and related complaints, economic harm, accidents, and potential injuries.

Specifically, the problem with the headrests is that they are made with a defective plastic bracket that is located inside the headrest. These brackets are prone to breaking and, when they do, the headrest can suddenly deploy into passengers' heads. The telltale sign that the plastic has failed is if only one headrest deploys in the vehicle and it cannot be later "reset" by the dealer. Chrysler has acknowledged being aware of this problem since at least 2017 but has not provided any warnings to consumers and has taken no steps to recall the defective headrests. Close to 1,000 injuries have been reported and there have been multiple reported accidents. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has received complaints about the headrest from over 150 Chrysler drivers in recent years, with complaints ranging from dislocated necks to headrests that failed to deploy during actual rear-end collisions but then unexpectedly hit drivers days after accidents.

Drivers and vehicle passengers have reported:

• Concussions and other injuries, as well as various types of accidents
• Sudden deployment while vehicles are being driven at nearly every speed – from under 10 mph in parking lots to 70+ mph on highways
• Sudden deployment while vehicles are stopped in traffic, at stoplights, or stop signs
• Unexpected deployment while vehicles are parked, even with engines turned off, and while drivers or passengers are entering or exiting the vehicle

Despite knowing of these issues – which allegedly affect millions of vehicles nationwide – Chrysler (also known as “FCA”) has not issued a recall.

Potential Losses Associated with the Alleged AHR Headrest Defect 

The alleged AHR headrest defect has raised safety concerns and caused potential physical and economic injury, including:

• Injuries: When AHR headrests deploy, they can apply a sudden and significant force to the back of the head and neck, creating the potential for concussions, and head and neck injuries;
• Accidents: The allegedly defective AHRs can deploy at any time, which greatly increases a driver’s risk of distraction, swerving and/or crashing, especially when vehicles are traveling at high speeds or in other hazardous conditions. Sudden deployments can also be accompanied by a loud and startling sound that can startle and scare drivers, increasing the risk of losing control of the vehicle.
• Replacement Costs: When AHR headrests deploy pursuant to the alleged defect, they cannot be reset and must be replaced, which can cost up to $800 or more.

Millions of Chrysler, Jeep, and Dodge vehicles manufactured between 2010 and 2020 have headrests equipped with allegedly defective AHR systems.

These may include, but are not limited to:

• Jeep:
  • 2010-2019 Compass
  • 2011-2020 Grand Cherokee
  • 2010-2019 Patriot
  • 2010-2012 Liberty
• Dodge:
  • 2010-2019 Caravan
  • 2011-2019 Durango
  • 2010-2019 Journey
  • 2010-2014 Avenger
  • 2010-2012 Caliber
  • 2010-2011 Nitro
• Chrysler:
  • 2010-2019 Town & Country
  • 2010-2014 200
  • 2010-2014 Sebring

Consumers have taken legal action to hold Chrysler accountable for the damages they’ve suffered as a result of the allegedly defective headrest. This includes consumer class action lawsuits.

You may have a potential case if:

• You own a Chrysler, Jeep, or Dodge vehicle in which the headrest suddenly deployed, exploded, or burst forward; and  
• You were injured or were involved in an accident as a result of a headrest deployment.

If you believe you may have a case, please fill out our case intake questionnaire.

Consumer lawsuits against FCA seek compensation for various losses. While every case is different, this may include:

• Injury-related losses, including medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and other economic and non-economic damages.
• Property damage caused by post-deployment accidents.

Request a FREE Review of Your Case By Our Defective Headrest Attorneys

If you were injured by your Jeep, Dodge, or Chrysler vehicle as a result of a defective headrest, we can provide you with a free case evaluation. In order to begin the process, please fill out our case intake questionnaire. If it appears you have a case, a lawyer will reach out to you within 24 hours of your submission.

At Kershaw Talley Barlow, our legal team is passionate about helping consumers level the playing field against corporations that value profits more than people and can help you evaluate your options for recovering compensation for your losses during a consultation.

Our firm proudly serves affected Chrysler, Jeep, and Dodge vehicle owners nationwide and offers FREE consultations. Request yours by calling (916) 520-6639 or contacting us online.