General Motors has recalled millions of vehicles due to faulty ignition switches that can cause affected vehicles to lose power, sometimes while driving at high speeds on busy highways, resulting in severe injuries and even death.
Many victims of accidents caused by faulty GM ignition switches have already sued the manufacturer and had successful results. If you or a loved one suffered injuries in an auto accident caused by a faulty ignition switch, a GM ignition switch injury lawyer from Gacovino, Lake & Associates, PLLC can help you recover the compensation you deserve.
Our team has won compensation for our clients in both class action and private lawsuits. We can go over the details of your claim and determine the best option for your situation.
The first step is to schedule a free consultation with a member of the Gacovino, Lake & Associates, PLLC team. We review your claim and answer your questions with no charge and no obligation. Our attorneys charge only for results — we get paid when you do and no sooner. To schedule your appointment today, call 800-550-0000.
What Are the Details of the GM Ignition Recall?
General Motors installed a faulty ignition switch in several different makes and models in the 2000s. The design of the switch leaves it vulnerable to turning to the off position at inopportune times, such as when driving. Weight placed on the key while in the ignition, such as from a key ring holding other items, can cause it to switch to off. When it switches the vehicle off, the airbags may not deploy in a collision.
Which Makes and Models Are Under Recall?
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), General Motors included the following vehicles in the recall for faulty ignition switches:
- All 2005-2010 Chevrolet Cobalts
- 2007-2010 Pontiac G5
- 2003-2007 Saturn Ion
- 2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR
- 2006-2010 Pontiac Solstice
- 2007-2010 Saturn Sky
If you drive one of these vehicles, GM’s ignition recall site suggests doing three things:
- Leave only your ignition key on your key ring. Do not leave your key fob on your key ring.
- Make sure your vehicle is in “park” before exiting. For manual transmissions, leave it in reverse gear. Remember to also set your parking brake.
- Make a repair appointment at your local dealer today. The repair is free. Parts are available.
Who Is Liable for an Accident Caused by a Faulty GM Ignition Switch?
If the evidence shows that the faulty ignition caused the accident, we can hold GM liable.
To hold a manufacturer liable for a defective product, we do not have to show negligence. Instead, we must demonstrate that you were using the product — in this case, your vehicle — for its intended purpose and that you did not alter it in any material way.
In other words, as long as you made no modifications to the ignition that GM might claim contributed to the accident, we can hold the company liable for damages. GM has already paid millions in settled claims related to this faulty ignition switch.
Note: GM might attempt to claim you contributed to the accident if your key ring included extra weight. We will work to protect your claim from any accusations of fault.
What Damages Can I Win in My Faulty GM Ignition Claim?
When car accident victims file successful defective product claims against manufacturers, they are potentially eligible for a host of damages. It depends on the economic and noneconomic losses you suffered in the accident.
At Gacovino, Lake & Associates, PLLC, our attorneys always fight to maximize your compensation. As we investigate your accident, we tabulate all your losses and determine the value of your claim. Then, by gathering evidence and building a thorough, compelling case, we aggressively seek full compensation.
You could be eligible for some or all of the following damages:
- Economic losses such as current and future medical bills, lost income, reduced earning capacity, vehicle damages, and loss of other personal property.
- Noneconomic losses including pain and suffering, emotional anguish, and loss of consortium.
If your loved one died in a vehicle accident resulting from a faulty GM ignition, we can also pursue a wrongful death claim.
Do I Need to Hire a Defective Products Lawyer?
You are not required to obtain legal representation for your GM ignition switch case; however, standing against an automaker with a large, experienced legal team can be overwhelming, especially if you are recovering from serious injuries or mourning the loss of a loved one.
Our personal injury lawyers are not afraid to stand up against GM and fight to get the money the automaker owes you.
To Schedule a Free Consultation with a Member of Our Legal Team, Call 800-850-0000 Today
A product liability attorney at Gacovino, Lake & Associates, PLLC is ready to help you get started with your claim. We see it through to the finish, and we never get paid until you recover compensation. To set up your free consultation with our team, call 800-850-0000 today.
