If you drive one of several General Motors vehicles, and you have experienced a stalling motor while driving, you may have a serious problem on your hands. The cars can have a defective ignition switch that can lead to deadly crashes. All models of the following vehicles were recalled by GM for this problem:
- Saturn Ion
- Saturn Sky
- Chevy Cobalt
- Chevy HHR
- Pontiac G5
- Pontiac Solstice
The problem with the switch is that is can independently change from the “on” position to the “accessory” or “off” position, causing the car’s engine to shut off. This causes the power steering and power brakes to be inoperable, which can cause the driver to lose control of the car. And if that’s not bad enough, if a crash occurs, the airbags won’t work.
Untold numbers of people have been injured in crashes caused by the defect, and 124 deaths have been acknowledged by the GM Ignition Switch Claims Resolution Facility.
GM knew about the problem for as many as 13 years before the recall notice was issued. Numerous lawsuits were filed and many are still pending. In addition, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York sought criminal charges against the company. Those charges resulted in GM reaching a settlement in which it agreed to take various corrective actions, including establishing the Claims Resolution Facility.
If you drive one of these vehicles, contact a dealership to have it repaired. You may have had an episode of the car stalling without causing an accident. Others have not been so lucky, and you may not be if it happens again. Act now; your life depends on it.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an automobile accident and need advice, contact the Alexander Law Group, LLP online, or call 888.777.1776. We have extensive experience in personal injury lawsuits and can take your case in the right direction. Consultations are free, and we don’t get paid if you don’t get paid.
