2015–2019 Collins DE416, 2015–2019 Collins DE500, 2015–2019 Collins DE516 and 6 other models Recall: In a hard braking situation or vehicle crash event, the barrier may not…

The defect

Collins Bus Corporation (Collins Bus) is recalling certain 2015-2019 Midbus DH500, DH516, DH400, DE416, DE500, DE516, TH400, SH416, and SH400 school buses equipped with HSM 39-INCH FB11 restraining barriers. In a hard braking situation or vehicle crash event, the barrier may not properly restrain an unbelted seat occupant. As a result, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 222, "School Bus Passenger Seating and Crash Protection."

The risk

Failure to properly restrain an unbelted seat occupant can increase the risk of injury.

The fix — what to do

Collins will notify owners, and HSM dealers will reinforce the barrier frame, free of charge. The recall began April 12, 2019. Owners may contact Collins customer service at 1-800-533-1850, extension 424. Collins' number for this recall is 19E-010.

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.