Have you been injured while driving or riding in a GM manufactured vehicle? As of August 2014, GM has set up a settlement program to compensate persons injured in several recalled cars. The problem noted in the recall is an ignition defect which cuts power to the airbags, power steering, and brakes. In these cases, the ignition switch moves out of the “run” position, resulting in a partial loss of electrical power and turning off the engine. These issues can cause an accident or make an accident far worse. As of September 22, 2014, the official death toll from the ignition defect stands at twenty-one (21). 143 alleged death claims have been filed, out of 675 total filed claims.
The affected models include:
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Buick |
Cadillac |
Chevrolet | Oldsmobile | Pontiac |
Saturn |
|
Lacrosse (2005-2009) |
CTS(2003-2014) | Camaro(2010-2014) | Alero(1999-2004) | G5(2007-2010) |
Ion (2003-2007) |
|
Lucerne (2006-2011) |
Deville(2000-2005) | Cobalt(2005-2010) | Intrigue(1998-2002) | Grand Am(1999-2005) |
Sky (2007-2010) |
|
DTS (2006-2011) |
HHR(2006-2011) |
Grand Prix (2004-2008) |
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|
SRX (2004-2006) |
Impala(2000-2014) |
Solstice (2006-2010) |
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|
Malibu (1997-2005) |
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|
Monte Carlo (2000-2007) |
If you were injured while driving or riding in one of these vehicles, it is important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible. The compensation expert hired by GM to manage the recall settlement has stated that GM will only accept claims until December 31, 2014. The settlement manager has also stated that GM has not placed a cap on the payments, so anyone with an eligible claim has an opportunity to recover damages. Those with an eligible death claim will automatically receive $1 million in addition to the awarded amount.
Eligible claims must meet the following criteria:
- The injured party must have been a driver of or passenger in one of the car models (and years) listed above;
- There must be a physical, personal injury—GM is not compensating for property damage;
- The airbags must not have deployed—if the airbags deployed, then this ignition defect was not the cause of the accident.
Finally, the compensation program will not consider driver negligence in determining eligibility for a settlement award. The law firm of Hollis Wright is currently representing numerous clients with potential GM claims. Complex litigation against large pharmaceutical companies demands specialized legal experience. If you or a loved one believe you have been harmed by a transvaginal mesh device, contact the firm of Hollis Wright for more information and evaluation.
Additional authors: Alison Almeida