Report on Volkswagen Emissions Settlement

Almost half a million U.S. Volkswagen, Audi, and Porsche car owners are expected to receive part of a $10.2 billion settlement resulting from Volkswagen intentionally installing erroneous software in over 11 million cars sold worldwide. Volkswagen admitted to a federal judge that it purposely programmed its software to meet emission standards in the U.S. and abroad, despite the fact that their cars release up to 40 times the level of nitrogen oxide permitted by the Environmental Protection Agency and the California Air Resources Board.

The 482,000 U.S. owners of the two-liter diesel cars will receive a cash settlement between $1,000 and $7,000, with an average payment of $5,000 to each owner, depending on the age of their car. Owners will also have the option of having their vehicle’s software and emissions system repaired free of charge, or selling back their automobile at the car’s value when the scandal broke in September 2015. Moreover, owners of leased vehicles will have the option of breaking their contract without penalty.

Part of the $10.2 billion settlement will be used to finance a Volkswagen remediation fund under the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act grant program, which is funded by the EPA. The amount to be dedicated to this fund will depend on the analysis of the effect that the illegal emissions had on air quality and will continue to have from vehicles that remain on the road. The settlement will also cover the cost of penalties for violating clean air laws in the U.S. The Federal Trade Commission is expected to file actions against the company for false advertising.

What is yet to be determined is the potential for class action lawsuits filed against Volkswagen in the future related to health problems caused by the dangerous emissions of these vehicles. The EPA explains that exposure to high levels of nitrogen oxides can result in harmful consequences, such as asthma attacks and respiratory conditions serious enough to warrant hospitalization. People with compromised immune systems, respiratory ailments, and the very young or the very old can suffer heart related complications or death from exposure to high levels of these gases.

Philadelphia Products Liability Lawyers at Galfand Berger LLP Provide Counsel and Representation to Victims Injured by Auto Defects

Automobile manufacturers have a legal responsibility to provide safe vehicles that are in compliance with federal environmental and safety laws. If you have been injured by a defective automobile, you may be entitled to collect compensation. Philadelphia products liability lawyers at Galfand Berger LLP can help you seek the justice and compensation you deserve.

Call us at 1-800-222-USWA (8792), or contact us online to schedule a consultation today. Our Center City Philadelphia offices serve clients throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey.