In continuing coverage of GM’s faulty ignition switches, the AP reports that the offices of compensation expert Kenneth Feinberg has approved a 36th death claim related to the defect. In total, GM has approved 36 death and 44 serious injury claims out of 229 death and 1,986 injury claims submitted since August.
GM issues recall for 273,000 SUVs. USA Today reports that GM issued a recall for 273,182 midsize SUVs and sedans in the US over concerns that “the low-beam headlights can cut out, temporarily or permanently.” Included in the recall are 2006-2009 Buick Lacrosse sedans; 2006-2007 Chevrolet TrailBlazer and 2006 TrailBlazer EXT; 2006-2007 GMC Envoy and 2006 Envoy XL; 2006-2007 Buick Rainier; 2006-2008 Saab 9-7X; and 2006-2008 Isuzu Ascender midsize SUVs. USA Today reports that the defect is related to the driver modules for the headlamps, noting “the low-beam headlamps and daytime running lamps could intermittently or permanently fail to illuminate.” The article notes that GM is unsure whether the defect has led to accidents or injuries.
Takata to expand recall. Reuters reports that the Nikkei business daily reported that Takata is preparing to announce an expansion of its recall of its defective airbag inflators beyond high-humidity locations, though Reuters notes that a Takata spokeswoman denied that the company had made a decision on the expansion. Reuters reports that NHTSA had demanded that the company take action by Tuesday or risk being fined.
From the news release of the American Association for Justice.
