The Britax jogging stroller line under the name BOB hasn’t been recalled yet, but the Consumer Product Safety Commission believes they should be.
What Is Wrong With the Britax Jogging Stroller?
A popular best-seller for years, the BOB jogging stroller has two wheels in the back and one in front. The CPSC says more than 100 reports of injuries to parents and their children have been received since 2012. The accidents reportedly occur because the front wheel suddenly falls off while the stroller is in motion and carrying the child.
Why Would the Front Wheel Pop Off?
More than 200 consumers have reported the front wheel falls off of the BOB stroller while the parent is jogging and pushing it. The front wheel is equipped with a quick release lever that, according to purchasers, releases the wheel without warning.
Has Anyone Been Hurt?
The CPSC reports children have suffered concussions, dental injuries, abrasions and bruising. In some instances, children have needed stitches to close facial wounds. Adults have suffered abrasions, contusions, broken bones and torn ligaments.
Why Is There No Recall?
The CPSC investigated the Britax jogging stroller complaints and encouraged Britax to issue a voluntary recall. When the company refused to do so, the CPSC filed a lawsuit in 2018.
Britax settled the lawsuit in January 2019, but made no admission of any defect. The settlement terms included Britax agreeing to provide free modified parts to consumers who wish to replace the quick release mechanism on their strollers. Britax also published a 9-minute video with instructions regarding the wheels.
Has the Issue Been Resolved?
Apparently, at least four of the BOB stoller axles that were sent to consumers as solutions to the quick release feature have broken. So far, no injuries have been reported related to this new issue, but Britax is now reaching out to the 197 consumers who received the replacement axles to ask them to send them back.
What Solutions Are Available to Stroller Owners?
Britax jogging strollers made between Jan. 1, 2009 and Sept. 30, 2015 have the quick release front wheel that could be a problem and are eligible for a replacement wheel with the quick release option or with a permanent thru-bolt axle.
In addition, anyone with a Britax jogging stroller made between Jan. 1, 2997 and Sept. 30, 2015 may be eligible for 20 percent off a new BOB jogging stroller.
Why Isn’t There a Warning About These Strollers on the Britax Website?
According to the settlement terms, Britax doesn’t have to issue a recall or issue any warning to consumers.
Is It Illegal to Resell These Strollers?
Unfortunately, the BOB strollers have not been recalled, which means they can be legally resold online or at yard sales or any other third-party marketplace, according to Consumer Reports. Parents looking for a bargain might buy one of these strollers without knowing the quick release wheel could possibly fail while the stroller is in use, which would place both parent and child at risk of serious injury.
What Recourse Do I Have if I Own a Britax Jogging Stroller with the Front Wheel Problem?
Owners of Britax jogging strollers made between Jan. 1, 2009 and Sept. 30, 2015 could qualify to participate in a class action lawsuit investigation.
