Over 6.5 million vehicles recalled for ignition switch defect linked to deaths, injuries
ALTON, Ill. – The Firm, a nationwide consumer protection law firm, confirmed today it is investigating the legal rights of drivers who own or have leased one of the 3.16 million newly recalled GM vehicles.
The latest vehicles are being recalled due to a defect in the ignition switch that can cause the key to slip from the ‘run’ to ‘accessory’ position. As with earlier recalls this year, the defect can cause the vehicle to lose power, which includes power steering, brakes and air bags.
The latest recall now includes:
- the Buick Lacrosse (2005-2009);
- Chevrolet Impala (2006-2014);
- Cadillac Deville (2000-2005);
- Cadillac DTS (2004-2011);
- Buick Regal LS and RS (2004-2005);
- and Chevrolet Monte Carlo (2006-2008).
The Chevrolet Impala is the only model still in production. Earlier in June, GM recalled over 500,000 Chevrolet Camaros worldwide due to a problem with keys not working correctly.
Previously recalled vehicles with defective ignition switches are:
- the Chevrolet Cobalt,
- Pontiac G5,
- Saturn Ion,
- Chevrolet HHR SUV,
- Pontiac Solstices,
- and Saturn Sky.
A study commissioned by The Center for Auto Safety reviewed data compiled from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration accident reports and found more than 300 deaths attributed to failed airbags in two of the recalled models. [i] GM acknowledged it has linked the faulty ignition switch to 12 deaths and 34 crashes in the Chevy Cobalt and the Saturn Ions.[ii] The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has launched its own investigation.
Reports published by USA Today assert that GM was aware of the ignition defect in 2001 and developed a solution, but decided against implementing it in 2005.[iii]
The Firm, a nationwide consumer protection law firm, has previously represented consumers in litigation surrounding Toyota’s recall of vehicles due to unintended acceleration.
Footnotes
[i] http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/03/14/us-gm-recall-casualties-idUSBREA2D02U20140314
[ii] http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/03/14/us-gm-recall-casualties-idUSBREA2D02U20140314
[iii] http://www.usatoday.com/story/money/cars/2014/03/23/gm-ignition-switches/6770433/
