GM Defective Ignition Switch Problem Continues

General Motors continues to struggle with the massive job of contacting all the owners of its products that may be in danger from faulty ignition switches. However, although the company claims to have contacted 2.4 million owners, at least one, Brittany Alfarone, did not receive the message in time to save her life. The 25-year-old Yonkers woman died in October when her 2006 Chevy Cobalt lost power, drifted into a guardrail and exploded.

GM Claims to Be Working on Notifications

General Motors claims that it has gone to great lengths to identify the owners of Chevy Cobalts and Saturn Ions manufactured from 2003 to 2007 to have their ignition switches replaced. They claim to have contacted these owners at least six times by letter or phone call in English and in Spanish if necessary.

So far, the company claims to have sent 5.3 million letter informing them of an Ignition Switch Compensation Fund that provides funds for those who were injured or lost a loved in in a crash in which the ignition switch was at fault. The national GM call center is staffed by 72 people, and their social media platforms are also being used to reach owners.

The company has also extended services hours at many dealerships and offers programs for loaner cars or concierge service to help those with faulty ignition switches get their repairs made quickly and easily. Owners who schedule and receive their repairs prior to January 1 will receive a $25 gift card.

Still, the efforts did not reach Brittany Alfarone in time. Her mother had to identify her body by dental records after her crash. The car was sold to Alfarone with a “salvaged title” from a Yonkers towing company.

If You Own A GM Car

If you own a GM car that could be subject to an ignition switch recall, it is very important for you to take the proper steps to ensure your safety. Check the GM website or call the toll free recall number at 1-800-222-1020 in order to learn more about how to schedule your ignition system repair.

If you have been injured in an accident related to a recalled vehicle, contact The Fitzgerald Law Firm in New York for more information about how to protect your rights. We are ready to help you recover payments for medical bills, pain and suffering and other costs.

print