Among the 2.5 million cars that General Motors is recalling due to defective ignition switches are thousands of Saturn Ions produced from 2003-2007. The ignition switch in these Saturn Ion models lacks enough torque to keep the key in the “on” position if the driver accidentally bumps it with his or her knee. The ignition switch can also be pulled into the “off” position by heavy key rings.
Once the ignition switch is changed into the “off” position the vehicle will lose all power to its steering and brakes and have its airbag disabled. Drivers cease to have control over their vehicle, putting themselves and others around them in danger.
A Texas woman had her 2004 conviction for negligent homicide overturned after it was revealed that the 2004 Saturn Ion she was driving was installed with one of GM’s defective ignition switches. The woman lost control of her vehicle and slammed into a tree, killing her fiance after the airbags failed to deploy.
Internal company emails show that GM was aware of the problem with its ignition switches for two months before it notified federal regulators of the potential problem. GM executives had hoped to stockpile enough replacement switches in anticipation of the recall before the announcement was made. The delayed notification, however, may have violated federal law, which requires auto parts makers to wait no more than five business days to alert the National Highway Transportation Administration of possible safety concerns.
If you, your family, or another loved one was hurt while driving a Saturn Ion produced from 2003-2007, the Cochran Firm’s Washington, D.C.’s office can help. GM has established a $400 million fund to compensate victims involved in car crashes which occurred as a result of the faulty ignition switches.
The experienced attorneys of the Cochran Firm understand product liability and personal injury law and are ready to fight for you and get the compensation you deserve. The deadline to file a claim has been extended to January 31st, 2015. Although you may be able to file a separate injury claim after this deadline, please contact us as soon as possible in order to preserve your rights. Reach us at 202-682-5800 or fill out a contact form on our website for a free, prompt, and confidential case evaluation.
The Saturn Ion is a coupe produced by GM in Spring Hill, Tennessee. It shares its GM Delta platform with the Chevy Cobalt and HHR and the Pontiac G5. All of these vehicles are also under recall for the faulty GM ignition switches.
