When automakers fail to ensure the safety of the products and parts they release to the public, consumers may become the victims of a Defective Product Injury.
This was the case for dozens of consumers who purchased makes and models of General Motors (GM) vehicles equipped with faulty ignition switches. A locking mechanism failure in the part can allow keys to shift into the off position while vehicles are in motion, resulting in a loss of control. Reports from CBS News explain that so far, 13 reports of fatalities and more than 450 injuries have been linked to the failure.
Toyota also recently recalled more than 6.4 million vehicles from around the world in connection to a similar problem. Starters in certain makes and models of these vehicles may contain a defect that causes the vehicle to remain running, even when the key is turned to the off position. The announcement comes on the heels of other earlier recalls that affected millions more vehicles.
The Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers with Stewart & Stewart Attorneys recognize the dangers defective car parts can pose to the public and encourage anyone who has been harmed as the result of such a product failure to discuss their legal rights with an attorney.