GM Ignition-Switch Fund Raises Death Toll to 42

General Motors Co.'s special fund has now approved compensation for 42 fatalities linked to faulty ignition switches that can abruptly turn off a vehicle's engine and knock out the power steering, power brakes and airbag systems.

The fund has so far approved seven claims of catastrophic injury and 51 for lesser injuries that involved hospitalization. The compensation program will continue to accept applications through January.