The current chief executive officer (CEO) of GM came to her position at one of the worst times. Mary Barra became the CEO during the defective ignition switch scandal. She’s had to deal with investigations, recalls, and lawsuits. In the midst of all of this, Barra is trying—with some success—to roll out positive changes to improve GM’s public image. Consumers should not forget, however, the damage that has done by GM. The truth is that GM has killed over 120 people and injured numerous others by selling millions of cars that used a faulty ignition switch.
The faulty switch can cause the ignition to turn to the “off” or “accessory” position during operation. When this malfunction occurs, it causes the driver to lose use of the car’s power steering and power brakes, and it causes airbags to fail.
Barra was responsible for orchestrating the recalls of the defective cars. She’s also made deals selling GM’s European counterparts, Opel and Vauxhall, to France’s PSA group. That deal was meant to happen a while ago, but because of the ignition switch fiasco, it couldn’t be worked out.
Barra has also been moving forward in other ways with the automotive giant. GM made a large investment in Lyft. It started work and testing on self-driving cars, and initiated its ride-sharing service, Maven. It also launched its first fully electric car, the Chevy Bolt.
Barra also happens to be the first female CEO of a major automaker.
Even though GM seems to be forward-thinking, the company must still take responsibility for the millions of defective cars it made and sold to the public. The recent strides GM and Barra have made should never be allowed to cover up the many lives lost due to knowingly placing customers and others in mortal danger.
No doubt, one motivation behind GM’s aggressive movement is the repair of its public image. Until all of the unnecessary damage is properly dealt with, however, it’s up to the public to hold GM accountable and make sure its leaders don’t forget the horrible events that led to lost and changed lives.
If you or a family member has been a victim of a crash caused by a defect, contact us at the Alexander Law Group, LLP or call 888.777.1776. We are experienced personal injury and products liability attorneys, and we’ll work with you to get the best recovery possible.
