Structure: bodyRecall 96V-080 · 1977–1996 Thomas School Bus
THOMAS BUILT BUSES, INC. recall 96V-080 covers 13,545 1977–1996 Thomas School Bus for a structure: body problem, reported to NHTSA on May 6, 1996.
Source: NHTSA recall 96V080000 and manufacturer quarterly reports. Started by the manufacturer.
The problem
THE DOOR HINGES WERE NOT SHIELDED AND CAN SNAG EXITING CHILDREN'S CLOTHING OR ACCESSORIES.
The risk
WHEN A PASSENGER'S CLOTHING BECOMES CAUGHT IN THE HANDRAIL, AND THE BUS DRIVER CLOSES THE DOOR AND PUTS THE VEHICLE IN MOTION, THE INDIVIDUAL IS SUBJECT TO BEING DRAGGED BY THE BUS. THIS CAN RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.
The fix
DEALERS WILL INSTALL HINGE PADS TO PREVENT THE SNAGGING OF PASSENGER'S CLOTHING.
SYSTEM: EQUIPMENT; HANDRAILS AT BUS ENTRYWAYS. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: SCHOOL BUSES EQUIPPED WITH JACK-KNIFE SERVICE DOORS AND NOT EQUIPPED WITH HINGE PROTECTOR PAD. NOTE: OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME, SHOULD CONTACT THOMAS BUILT AT 1-910-889-4871. ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-800-424-9393.
Recall repairs are free. Confirm whether this recall is open on your vehicle by entering its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.