Many companies seem to think they are above the law. GM has sold millions of cars with a fatal ignition switch defect, one that its employees knew about for 10 years before it announced recalls or informed its buyers or the general public.
The defect has been written about often because it is a big deal. Already, the faulty ignition switch has already killed over 120 people and injured many, many others.
GM sold millions of cars with faulty ignition switches. When affected, the switch had a tendency to turn to the “off” or “accessory” position while the car was being driven. If your car has ever stalled while being driven, you understand the panic that sets in. With a car off, many control and safety systems don’t work, such as power steering, power brakes, and airbags.
When people are convicted of murder, they face time in prison, ranging from many years to their entire lives. GM’s faulty switch killed at least 124 people, but no one went to trial and no one went to prison. Instead, the company only faces monetary punishment. Yes, some employees were fired because of the ignition switch debacle, yet not a single person from GM has been held criminally responsible.
GM’s partner in crime is Delphi. Delphi is the manufacturer of the defective ignition switches. Even so, no one from Delphi is going to prison either. Just like GM, Delphi is paying some fines, and a few people will be fired.
Even though Delphi sold GM the parts, that doesn’t mean GM is innocent in all this. Delphi warned GM that the parts had defects and didn’t meet GM specifications, but GM bought the parts and installed them in its vehicles.
Some of the people responsible for the unnecessary deaths and injuries should have a tough time sleeping at night. They didn’t lose loved ones as many did, but they surely know the unfortunate results of their mishandling of the situation.
GM’s ignition switch scandal is another example of corporate crime that is not prosecuted. Only monetary damages have been assessed, and no individuals are being held responsible. If you or a loved one were affected by a faulty GM switch, contact us at the Alexander Law Group, LLP or call 888.777.1776. We believe that holding people and companies responsible for their actions has the power to change the future, and we’ll help you do just that.
