DaimlerChrysler Suit Becomes Class Action

A lawsuit against DaimlerChrysler challenging the safety of a seat belt buckle was granted nationwide class-action status by a Texas judge.

The suit on behalf of owners of about 14 million Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep vehicles focuses on a buckle known as the Gen 3. At least three deaths have been blamed on the buckle, which the suit says is prone to unlatching during accidents or unlatching from around child and infant car seats in turns and sudden stops.

DaimlerChrysler did not immediately return a telephone call seeking comment.

Suits filed in Texas, California, Ohio, Massachusetts and Georgia claim the seat belt buckles are defective and release on impact, making it look as if accident victims weren't wearing a seat belt.

DaimlerChrysler shares rose $1.38 to $46.82 on the New York Stock Exchange.