TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2015 FORD FUSION. WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, THE STEERING WHEEL DETACHED FROM THE STEERING COLUMN. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT CRASHED INTO A DITCH. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED MINOR BRUISES AND BACK PAIN THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INSURANCE LOT WHERE IT WAS DEEMED A TOTAL LOSS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER OR INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING OR REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 50,000.