Recent reports from General Motors’ (GM) compensation fund state that GM ignition switch deaths reached 124, due to collisions allegedly caused by the mechanical malfunction. Even though General Motors’ independent administrator shows there are no other GM ignition switch deaths, company officials state additional cases are still pending.

According to the spokeswoman Camille Biros, these pending cases are considered “deficient” by the company and that these cases need to present additional documentation. According to an independent administrator involved with the GM ignition switch deaths claims, there may be 326 cases ineligible for compensation while 24 cases were deficient.

Even for consumers who did not lose a loved one to the GM ignition switch defect, customers have also filed for compensation. Depending on the severity of injury like brain damage, burns, amputations, or paralysis, 18 cases were found to be eligible, 227 cases were ineligible, and 33 were deficient.

Out of the customers claiming they required hospitalization after GM ignition switch accident: 248 claims were approved, 2,946 were considered ineligible, and 396 were deficient. Of the total 4,342 claims, the independent administrator approved 390 of the claims, with 3,499 ineligible claims and 453 deficient cases.

Overview of GM Ignition Switch Defect

The cases involved in the GM victims’ compensation fund pertain to customers who were injured due to a defect in their vehicle’s ignition switch. This defect causes the engine to suddenly shut off, due to the keys in the ignition slot suddenly slipping the ignition into the off position which ultimately shuts down the car.

Customers complain the GM ignition switch defect could not only be caused by the weight of key chains, but even the slightest bump to the switch area with a knee. When the engine is shut off, the car’s safety features are inhibited and places customers in serious danger of collision. At this time, over 100 GM ignition switch deaths have been reported.

Even though General Motors allegedly knew of the ignition switch problems and their risk since 2001, the company did not issue a recall on the affected vehicles until 2014. The concern over GM ignition switch deaths has resulted in millions of vehicles being recalled, congressional hearings, and serious damage to the automobile company’s reputation.

Customers who bought a year 2000 GM vehicle or later may be able to file legal action against the company for failing to warn them for over a decade. Potential claimants should contact a knowledgeable lawyer to determine eligibility for a GM ignition switch defect lawsuit.