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GM Cleared in Lawsuit Over Ignition Switch Update
A General Motors Co. replacement ignition switch for the defective original unit didn’t cause a crash in Arizona, says the jury in a federal court in New York City.
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A General Motors Co. replacement ignition switch for the defective original unit didn’t cause a crash in Arizona, says the jury in a federal court in New York City.
Plaintiff Dennis Ward claimed the new switch rotated out of the “run” position, shut off his car’s engine and caused a crash in 2014 that injured his knee, Automotive News reports. The jury disagreed. GM’s lawyers blamed the incident on inattentive driving.
GM recalled 2.6 million of the original “423” model switches three years ago after admitting the devices could be jogged out of position by a sharp suspension jolt or the driver’s knee. The switches were blamed for 124 fatalities and 275 serious injuries. GM eventually paid about $2.5 billion in penalties, legal fees and compensation.
The replacement “190” switch is equipped with a stronger spring to help keep the ignition key in position. But AN notes that some 230 other lawsuits that claim the new device may fail are pending before the same New York court.
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