Recently, auto industry giant General Motors, who is also embroiled in much litigation and governmental investigations, hinted that its avalanche of older vehicle recalls may be over. Earlier this year, General Motors recalled over 2.6 million vehicles, all of which were older models and small sedans, due to a faulty ignition switch. The defective ignition switch allows the vehicle to switch out of run, switching it into off. In the off mode, the power steering and brakes are disabled. This can cause drivers to lose control of the car. Further, the faulty switch will disable the air bags, causing them not to inflate in the event of an accident. This faulty ignition switch has been linked to over 54 crashes and 13 deaths. It is expected more accidents and deaths will be uncovered as investigations continue.
Months after this initial massive recall, the recall widened to include another 3.4 million vehicles. The cars involved in this recall were larger model, older cars. GM revealed that the faulty switches in these vehicles are, in fact, different from those in the initial smaller recalled vehicles. The ignition switches in these vehicles can be knocked out of the run position due to the force of a large bump. They can also be knocked into off mode by only a swinging keychain. These faulty switches have been linked to at least six injuries in eight crashes.
Recalled vehicle models include several Chevrolets, Pontiacs, Saturns, Buicks, Cadillacs, and a Chevy Monte Carlo. Not all years are affected. Anyone who owns one of these vehicles and has been in an accident, or has been involved in an accident with a potentially recalled vehicle, is advised to consult with an attorney as soon as possible.
The number of lawsuits filed against GM continues to grow daily as the faulty switches are being linked to more and more accidents. Several investigations are underway and substantial evidence has been revealed that demonstrates GM’s longstanding knowledge of the problem and failure to correct it. GM apparently became aware of the faulty nature of the switch in 2001, but did not issue a recall to owners of affected vehicles until this year. In 2005, GM engineers actually developed a fix to the problem that would have cost just $1 per vehicle. GM, however, chose not to fix it.
While GM’s recall avalanche over the ignition switch problem may be over, the automaker will likely continue to be involved in lawsuits and litigation for some time to come. GM is attempting to put together a settlement to compensate auto accident victims, but the details are unclear as of yet.
Barrett Law, PLLC: Experienced Representation for Defective Automobile Accident Victims in Mississippi
For over 75 years, across three generations, the Mississippi Car Accident Attorneys at Barrett Law PLLC have provided skilled, zealous, and intelligent representation for the victims of defective automobile accidents and other types car accidents across the state. Our personal injury attorneys have the knowledge, experience, and resources to obtain the results you seek. Our attorneys will immediately investigate the facts of your accident to uncover whether a recalled GM part or other sort of product defect played a role. We will then guide you towards a full and complete recovery. Barrett Law, PLLC operates on a contingency fee basis and the first consultation is always free. The attorneys at Barrett Law, PLLC pride themselves on ensuring each and every client receives superior representation, with passion and zeal. Call today at 1 (800) 707-9577 to schedule your free consultation.