Did Automakers Hide Keyless Ignition Defects?

By Peter DePaolis
Attorney

Recently, a lawsuit was filed in Los Angeles seeking class action status alleging that 10 automakers concealed the risks of carbon monoxide poisoning associated with keyless ignition defects.

According to the Consumerist, the lawsuit was filed in August, accusing the companies of failing to inform buyers of a “deadly defect” associated with keyless ignition switches. The lawsuit alleges that at least 13 people have died across the country due to the technology.

Manufactures named in the lawsuit include BMW, Fiat Chrysler, Ford, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Nissan, Toyota, Volkswagen and Mercedes Benz and brands like Infiniti, Kia and Acura.

The lawsuit claims that through the keyless ignitions, drivers are allowed to start their vehicles by having their keyfob in a car and by using an on/off button. Because of the convenience, some people have allegedly forgotten to shut off their cars, leading to carbon monoxide deaths when vehicles are parked in enclosed spaces.

Plaintiffs claim that manufacturers have known about the issues relating to keyless technology since its introduction into vehicles but have done nothing to address the problems, as there have been no recalls or safety warnings issued relating to the technology.

“In a number of incidents, drivers have parked their affected vehicles inside their garages and removed the keyless fobs, only to later discover that the engines never actually turned off,” the lawsuit says.

The lawsuit says that since 2009, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has received 27 complaints over keyless ignition risks.

What Can I Do About a Keyless Ignition Defect or Other Defective Auto Part Injury?

It is tragic that keyless vehicle technology has allegedly led to deaths. Remember, you can hold a manufacturer liable if a defective product has harmed you. Manufacturers should be held responsible if they put consumers at risk.

If you have been injured or your loved one has been killed due to a defective auto part or recalled vehicle, speak to our attorneys about your legal rights. We can investigate the incident and determine if you can hold a manufacturer liable, possibly entering into a settlement or class action case.

Follow our social media sites for news about vehicle accidents in Virginia.

Koonz, McKenney, Johnson & DePaolis L.L.P.

Virginia Injury Attorneys

Source: http://consumerist.com/2015/08/27/class-action-lawsuit-claims-10-automakers-hid-keyless-ignition-carbon-monoxide-dangers-that-led-to-13-deaths/

About the Author
Peter DePaolis joined the firm in 1980 and has since represented a large number of individuals involved in automobile collisions, truck accidents, bus crashes, defective products, and medical malpractice cases. A significant portion of Mr. DePaolis’ practice is devoted to working on behalf of people suffering from asbestosis, mesothelioma, and other asbestos-related cancers. He has led his firm’s fight against the asbestos industry and has recovered over $30 million in damages for asbestos victims and their families.