Dometic USA has initiated a recall and replacement of its 9100 Power Awnings, Weatherpro Awnings and Motor Service Kits and all the affected power awning units. Apparently, if a step was missed in the installation of the power awnings, the motor can be damaged causing the awning to unfurl. If you have one of these awnings, please heed the recall and immediately have your awning checked. If you own any awning that is installed on your RV or trailer, please check it for stability and security as well.
I previously posted a blog about awnings unfurling, coming off moving RVs and effectively becoming dangerous flying projectiles. (“RV Awnings can Become Missiles” January 12, 2013) In 2010, one of our clients was struck by a 90+ pound awning rod assembly that came crashing through her windshield. She was lucky to survive the event, but continues to undergo major surgical, medical and dental treatments.
This particular recall involves power awning products manufactured between February 13, 2013, (306XXXXX serial #) through April 9, 2013, (314XXXXX serial #). The serial # appears on a label on the right underside of the fabric and on the roller tube. On the power awning field Motor Service Kit the serial # appears on the end cap of the shipping tube. Dometic has identified 27,098 affected units. The Company has advised its other equipment manufacturers and aftermarket dealers to call 1-888-943-4905 for specific replacement instructions. Consumers are being notified directly by the company's dealers. Consumers can obtain specific instructions to determine if their awning is subject to the recall or obtain information regarding repair by calling the toll–free number 1-888-943-4905.
Regardless of what kind of awning you have, before any trip, a walk around to inspect the vehicle and its component parts is always necessary. A detailed re-inspection should be done periodically and before any extensive trip. Some of the safety features to prevent separation can be seen by the naked eye. Because not all potential problems are obvious, an inspection of the component parts by a qualified mechanic should be periodically performed.
Civil litigation attorney Billy Cunningham practice concentrates on personal injury, wrongful death, nursing home abuse, business litigation, environmental law and insurance matters. He is licensed to practice in the state and federal courts of Alabama and Mississippi, as well as in the U.S. Court of Military Appeals, U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit and the Supreme Court of the United States.
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