GM IDs 19 Fatalities Linked to Faulty Ignition Switches

The General Motors Co. program to compensate victims of 2.6 million recalled ignition switches has so far accepted claims for 19 fatalities, four catastrophic injuries and eight lesser injuries.

The program has received 445 applications between Aug. 1 and Sept. 12. The count includes 125 alleged fatalities, 58 catastrophic injuries and 262 lesser injuries that required hospitalization. Compensation claims expert Kenneth Fienberg runs the group.

GM has officially acknowledged 13 fatalities linked to the ignition switches, which can be jarred into cutting off power to the engine, power brakes and airbags. Attorneys predict the final toll will be significantly higher.

The company, citing privacy concerns, has declined to say whether any or all of the original 13 fatalities are included in the 19 claims approved to date.

There is no cap on the compensation payments, but GM anticipates a total between $400 million and $600 million. The program will continue to take claims through the end of 2014.