Featured News 2014 General Motors Recalls 780k Cars After Deaths

General Motors Recalls 780k Cars After Deaths

General Motors is currently recalling more than three quarters of a million cars because of safety issues linked to front seat fatalities. General Motors says that some of the deaths that have been reported in connection with the defect are partially the fault of the drivers. Still, General Motors has announced that they will recall 778,562 cars that are possible defective.

In the cars that are recalled, there is a possibility that the cars can switch out of the run position. This means that in mid-trip, the vehicle suddenly shuts off, turning off the engine and most of the car's electrical components. When this happens, the airbags fail to deploy, which puts those in the front seats at a higher risk to death or serious injuries.

General Motors says that the car is at a higher risk of turning off if there is weight on the key ring, such as heavy key chains. Also, hazardous road conditions can cause the cars to turn off. GM argues that in some of the six fatalities reported, the drivers were using alcohol or did not have on seat belts, and this contributed to their death.

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration is starting its own investigation into the matter and will help gather evidence which family members of the deceased individuals can use to possibly file a lawsuit against GM. Oftentimes, defective car lawsuits can result in massive settlements for plaintiffs.

The recall involves all 2005 to 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt and 2007 Pontiac G5 models. GM no longer makes these cars. A GM spokesman says that fewer than 80 percent of all recalled vehicles are in the United States, and the remainder is in Canada in Mexico. The parts that caused the defect were all made in Mexico. GM will be sending letters to those that are affected by the recall so that they can bring their cars in for a checkup and repair.

According to USA Today, the immediate remedy for this issue is to replace the switch. While there have been six deaths, USA Today says that GM has been notified of at least 22 accidents that were caused in part by the ignition switches. If you want more information about this car recall, or if you have been injured due to an automobile defect, you need to contact an attorney at a local firm today to learn more. With the right lawyer on your side, you will be able to seek assistance in your case. Don't hesitate to contact the firm today to learn more.

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