We Are Not Afraid to Fight for the Compensation You Are Owed
GM has announced a recall of roughly 1.6 million vehicles sold in the U.S. due to a potentially deadly defect in the cars’ ignition switches. Studies have shown that the faulty switches can be turned from “on” to “off” without the driver’s input – such as when the car hits a bump in the road, or even just if the key in the ignition is attached to a heavy keychain. When the ignition is switched to the “off” position, the vehicle loses power steering, power braking, and airbag functionality.
If you believe that you suffered an injury in an accident caused by this ignition defect, Ashcraft & Gerel can help you understand your rights and options and file a liability claim.
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How Recalled GM Cars Have Caused Fatal Accidents
Officials at General Motors claim that the ignition switch defect was related to only 12 deaths out of 22 crashes. The Center for Auto Safety, however, claims that at least 303 deaths could be attributed to the defect – and that is based on assessments of only two of the recalled vehicle models.
In association with the ignition switch defect, General Motors has recalled the:
- 2005-2007 Chevrolet Cobalt
- 2005-2007 Pontiac G5
- 2003-2007 Saturn Ion
- 2006-2007 Pontiac Solstice
- 2006-2007 Chevrolet HHR
- 2006-2007 Saturn Sky
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GM’s Failure to Immediately Recall Defective Cars
It is likely that GM knew about the defective ignition switch problem for more than 10 years before the company decided to take action and announce a recall. Facing congressional investigations and criminal probes, GM once claimed that it knew about an ignition switch problem with the Saturn Ion in 2001. Earlier statements by GM, however, claimed that they discovered the problem in 2004. This discrepancy in the company’s statements leaves a lot of room for investigation.
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How GM’s Bankruptcy Affects Accountability
GM has tried claiming that it cannot be liable for any damages sustained before 2009 – the year the company filed for bankruptcy and got a government bailout. This bankruptcy process protected GM from liability claims dated before 2009. Lawyers on both sides of the argument debate whether the company should still be accountable for pre-2009 claims.
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You Have Rights as a Consumer
All carmakers are legally obligated to ensure the safety of the vehicles they produce. They are also required to quickly fix any defects or design flaws that arise. If you have suffered an injury because of a defective GM ignition switch, you deserve compensation for the physical, emotional, and financial burdens you now face.
When filing a claim against GM, you may be eligible for damages including:
- Current and future pain and suffering, impairment, and mental anguish
- Medical bills
- Future medical treatments, therapies, and other care
- Lost wages
- Diminished earning capacity
Contact Ashcraft & Gerel Today
As leaders in defective product litigation, our GM ignition switch lawsuit attorneys in Rockville are prepared to take on your claim and pursue the maximum compensation to which you are entitled. We are not afraid to stand up to GM and make sure they are held accountable for the defect that left you injured.