Car manufacturers have a responsibility to ensure the safety of the vehicles and equipment they release to the market. The Indianapolis Defective Product Lawyers with Stewart & Stewart Attorneys explain that failure to do so can result in fines, recalls, and civil lawsuits.
According to an article published by USA Today, General Motors (GM) is coming under heavy scrutiny for a potentially fatal design defect they may have known about for years without taking corrective action. The problem is in faulty ignition switches that can cause the vehicle to exit the “running” mode while the vehicle is in motion, causing cars to crash.
So far, GM says they are aware of 31 motor vehicle accidents and 13 fatalities that can be associated with the faulty equipment.
Experts say the recall could affect as many as 1.37 million vehicles, including Chevrolet Cobalts made between 2005 and 2007, 2003-2007 Saturn Ions, 2006-2007 Chevrolet HHRs and Pontiac Solstices, and 2007 Saturn Sky and Pontiac G5s.
Those who own an affected vehicle are encouraged to have the problem fixed free of charge. Those who have been harmed as a result of an accident stemming from the defective part should report the incident immediately.
The Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers with Stewart & Stewart Attorneys would add that anyone who has been injured in an accident caused by a defective car part should first speak with a qualified attorney to discuss their legal options and rights.