Automotive manufacturers are responsible for making sure the vehicles and parts they produce function properly, but sometimes problems aren’t discovered until they result in an accident.
One of the most common defects in cars today is the failure of the ignition switch in millions of cars and trucks made by General Motors (GM). The ignitions in the affected vehicles can turn to the “off” position while the vehicles are still in motion., resulting in hundreds of drivers losing control and crashing.
An investigation into the faulty parts led to the GM ignition switch recall, and information showed that the company failed to disclose news of the defect to both consumers and federal regulators. According to CNN Money, the company will pay $900 million in penalties in the matter and was required to admit they withheld the information about the faulty parts. It was also announced earlier today that company executives would avoid prosecution for the part they played in failing to disclose the risks about the faulty switches.
If you’ve been affected by an accident that was the result of a faulty car part, the North Carolina defective product lawyers at HensonFuerst encourage you to learn more about your rights on our website.