Philadelphia Products Liability Lawyers Report: $35 Million Fine for General Motors Over Defective Ignition Switch

Automobile manufacturer General Motors continues to face the consequences of its decision to allow millions of its most popular brand vehicles to go to market despite having defective ignition switches.  Following the largest automobile recall in U.S. history, General Motors now faces a $35 million fine for its delay in notifying the public of this potentially deadly defect.

General Motors has recalled almost three million vehicles, including several types of Cobalts and Saturns, which have been manufactured with defective ignition switches.  At least 13 deaths and over 30 crashes have been linked to loose ignition switches which may cause the power steering system, antilock braking system and air bags to malfunction.

According to the United States Department of Transportation, General Motors knew about problems with the ignition switch over ten years ago during the production phase of these vehicles.  Although General Motors knew about the defect, they made a “business decision” to put these unsafe automobiles on the market. General Motors’ delay in taking corrective action with respect to the ignition switch defect has resulted in a $35 million fine, the maximum civil penalty allowed.

This is the single highest civil penalty ever imposed as a result of a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) investigation. In addition to the large civil penalty, General Motors will be under the strict NHTSA oversight. It is the hope of the NHTSA that changes to the internal operating procedures of General Motors will ensure that safety remains the highest priority for the automobile manufacturer.

If you have suffered an injury as a result of a defective ignition switch in a General Motors vehicle, the experienced products liability attorneys at Galfand Berger can assist you in obtaining compensation for your injuries.  We will work tirelessly on your behalf to help you obtain the maximum amount of compensation for your injuries.  Our offices are conveniently located in Philadelphia, Reading and Bethlehem, Pennsylvania to serve individuals throughout Pennsylvania, including the Harrisburg and Allentown regions, as well as the South Jersey area.  Call Galfand Berger today at 1-800-222-8792 or contact us online to schedule a free confidential consultation.