General Motors announced in June that it will recall 3.36 million mid-size and large cars for defective ignition switches. The company already recalled 2.6 million vehicles this year for the same problem. GM also announced recalls for 165,770 vehicles for other reasons, including problems with automatic transmissions and power steering.
The ignition switch problem can lead to disabling off airbags and power steering. The ignition switch can move from the “run” position as a result of too much weight on the key chain or a jarring event. This is the same problem that lead to 13 deaths and 54 accidents in small cars that GM recalled earlier this year. GM is aware of eight crashes and six injuries related to the most recent recall.
The vehicles recalled are the Buick Lacrosse from 2005-2009; Chevrolet Impala 2006-2014; Cadillac Deville 2000-2005; Cadillac DTS 2004-2011; Buick Lucerne 2006-2011; Buick Regal LS & GS 2004-2005 and Chevy Monte Carlo from 2006-2008.
GM was fined $35 million by the US Transportation Department as part of an investigation into how the auto maker handled the recall. The company expects to take charge of about $700 million this quarter due to this recall and the recalls in May.
After an internal investigation by GM confessing culpability for the incompetence and negligence related to the defective ignition switches, plaintiffs have grounds for lawsuits seeking economic damages. GM is also under investigation by the Justice Department, the Securities and Exchange Commission, and a group of state attorney generals.
If you have suffered a serious injury in an accident caused by an auto defect, you may be entitled to receive significant compensation by the auto manufacturer for your injuries. Undoubtedly, GM will face future lawsuits filed by injured motorists who crashed due to the various defects, and the attorneys at Lopez McHugh, LLP are prepared to assist in such lawsuits. Do not hesitate to contact our office for help and to schedule a free consultation.