Two More Auto Makers Issue Ignition Switch Recalls

 Posted on December 00,0000 in Motorcycle Accidents

The minivan has become one of the most popular family car models. Many parents find the comfortable seating, cargo room and third seat removal perfect whether or not they are transporting a vehicle full of children or groceries. However, a recent recall announcement by one minivan manufacturer reveals that there may be a hidden deadly danger in some of these family vehicles.

Volkswagon has issued a recall for almost 21,000 minivans which were manufactured by Fiat Chrysler Automobiles. The company’s Routan minivan, from model years 2009 and 2010, have been shown to have the same ignition switch issue that have affected millions of vehicles sold in this country.

The faulty switches can suddenly go into the “off” position, which cuts off power to the engine, and shutting down function of steering, brakes, and airbags. Automakers say that any sudden jarring or bumpy road conditions can cause the ignition switch to move to the off position. They also advise car owners to remove all items from the key ring – including the key fob – except for the vehicle key, until they are able to get it to a dealership in order to have the problem fixed.

Last year, General Motors Corporation recalled almost 3 million vehicles due to the defective ignition switches. So far, there have been at least 57 approved death claims filed against GM. The total number of claims filed against the auto maker is 3,068, of which 338 were death claims. Another 224 claims are classified as Category One, meaning the victims suffered permanent brain damage, double amputation, paraplegia, quadriplegia, or pervasive burns.

The announcement from Volkswagon comes on the heels of another recall, directly by Fiat Chrysler. In March, Fiat Chrysler issued a recall for 702,578 minivans and SUVs because of the same faulty ignition switch issue. Vehicles involved in that recall include 2008 to 2010 Chrysler Town and Country and Dodge Grand Caravan, as well as 2009 and 2010 Dodge Journey SUVs.

If you have been injured in a car accident which was the result of a defect in the vehicle, contact an experienced Lake County personal injury attorney to find out what legal action you may be able to take against the manufacturer.