An announcement made by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) stated that they will be overseeing the GM ignition switch recall process for an additional year. NHTSA has already assumed charge of the Takata air bag recalls. Between the two major recalls, NHTSA will be overseeing millions of vehicles.

Regulators made the decision for NHTSA to remain involved in the GM ignition switch recall in mid-May. For the next year, GM will be required to report and meet with NHTSA on a monthly basis so that the agency can ensure GM is proceeding with safety measures. GM “allowed” NHTSA to aid them last May when they signed a consent form enabling the agency to oversee their actions during the GM ignition switch recall.

The GM/NHTSA relationship appears to be beneficial, and GM has stated that it has allowed the vehicle manufacturer to “foster a relationship that’s candid, transparent and totally focused on the safety of our customers.”

GM Ignition Switch Recall

Roughly 2.6 million vehicles have been affected by the faulty GM ignition switches that are being recalled. The flaw leads the ignition to switch from the “on” position to “off” or “auxiliary” while the car is in motion, all on its own. This has led to serious accidents involving multiples deaths and injuries for GM vehicle drivers and passengers.

Allegedly, GM was aware of the ignition switch defect for years before announcing the recall. As a result, countless individuals have chosen to file GM ignition switch lawsuits accusing the vehicle manufacturer of failing to warn against this potentially deadly flaw.

Plaintiffs in GM ignition switch lawsuits may win compensation for the injuries caused by the defect. GM organized a compensation program that enables individuals with a range of injuries to file a complaint with the company and to receive compensation accordingly. Wrongful death lawsuits have also been filed by family members of individuals who have died due to the GM ignition switch defect.