Ignition Switch Death-Toll Rises To 80

Contrary to what some may think, the GM Ignition Switch recall debacle is still firmly in the limelight and we are months and months away from any potential resolution.

First up, Judge Gerber will soon decide whether GM can use a “financial shield” to deflect a bulk of the lawsuits. No matter how he rules the outcome of his decision is sure stir the pot and draw fire.

Next, we have the ever-rising number of ignition-related deaths, which yesterday was officially raised to 80 by the GM Ignition Switch Compensation Facility.

So far, 4,342 claims have been filed but just 288 have been deemed eligible for compensation. Every claim is categorized based on its perceived eligibility, ineligibility, and severity.

Category One claims are “physical injuries resulting in quadriplegia, paraplegia, double amputation, permanent brain damage or pervasive burns”, while Category Two claims are less severe “physical injuries requiring hospitalization (or outpatient medical treatment) within 48 hours of the accident,” according to the claims resolution facility.

Here’s how the 288 eligible claims break-down:

Category One: 11
Category Two: 137
Deceased: 80

A further 1,083 claims have been deemed “Deficient” (not enough evidence to permit a claim) while another 582 were submitted with no paper work at all.

Be in no doubt, these numbers are sure to rise even higher: a further 1,246 claims are still under under review.