GM Recall Spurs Safety Tips From Los Angeles Law Firm

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...what’s already a challenging traffic situation can easily turn deadly when a vehicle proves defective.

Los Angeles, CA (PRWEB) April 09, 2014

Traffic conditions are perilous even on the best of days, and in addition to their own skills, people count on their automobiles to get them where they’re going safely.

Unfortunately, defects associated with a vehicle itself all too often put lives in danger. Millions of vehicles were recently recalled by General Motors because of an ignition switch defect that can cause a stall while the car is in motion. The situation has prompted an investigation into GM, which may have known about the hazard inherent to its vehicles for more than a decade. Although the official GM death toll stands slightly higher than a dozen, some believe the defect has claimed the lives of far more than that.

The issue is explored in depth in an Associated Press article found on ABC News entitled “GM Recall: Many Victims Were Young Drivers.” That April 1 report highlights how numerous persons killed or injured in accidents may have been younger drivers who lacked the experience necessary to cope with a vehicle that suddenly lost its locomotion and power steering capabilities.

The Nagelberg Bernard Law Group has been paying attention to the recent controversy and has decided to act. In addition to opening its doors to persons who believe they qualify to file a GM recall lawsuit, the firm continues to represent individuals injured by a host of other vehicle defects. Attorney Larry Nagelberg has picked up a few insights that he hopes citizens can use to protect themselves:

“It’s a shame that General Motors appears to have dragged its feet on this issue,” said Mr. Nagelberg, “as more expedient action could have saved lives. Living in Los Angeles, I’ve seen my fair share of less than ideal road conditions, and what’s already a challenging traffic situation can easily turn deadly when a vehicle proves defective. If you ever find yourself experiencing a defect mid-trip, you need to know how to protect yourself.”

The auto accident lawyers of the Nagelberg Bernard Law Group have combed through some of the most common defects from recent years and put together tips geared toward avoiding disaster should those hazards make themselves known.

•Power Loss- The source of the GM recall, this condition is dangerous because of the sudden actions required of the driver, who is likely unversed in piloting a vehicle without the aid of power steering.

If a vehicle loses power, the driver must immediately flick on the emergency flashers (which should still operate) and use his or her arm strength to pull the vehicle toward the shoulder or the furthest right lane, assuming that lane is clear. Should that prove impossible given the vehicle’s trajectory, try to quickly restart the vehicle and pull over if the vehicle turns back on.

•Unintended Acceleration- This is almost the opposite problem as power loss, with a vehicle seemingly taking off of its own accord. Once an automobile accelerates without driver input, the operator should press the brakes. If that doesn’t work, shift into a neutral gear or turn off the vehicle while using its momentum to steer toward the shoulder.

•Vehicular Fire- Some defects are the result of a short circuit or overheating condition that can prompt a fire. If your vehicle ever catches fire in the middle of transit, activate the emergency flashers and pull over as soon as possible. Get out of the vehicle and immediately call 911. DO NOT go back into the automobile until the fire has been squelched.

Note: Some defects make a fire possible even when parked; if this is the case, then owners absolutely must not park affected automobiles in a garage or near any structures.

•Sudden Airbag Deployment- If the airbags ever inadvertently activate in the midst of transit, immediately hit the brakes, but do not make the mistake of flailing with the wheel, as this can cause you to swerve and strike other vehicles. Instead, tap the brakes and coast to a stop. Once halted, move aside the airbag and pull over to a safe place where you can call the proper authorities.

The Nagelberg Bernard Law Group represents the victims of numerous types of personal injury situations, including automobile accidents, dog bites, slip and fall incidents, defective products, and wrongful death in any of the above. They have guided injured persons through the legal process for more than 30 years and their efforts have helped secure more than $400 million in compensation for clients. Visit the firm online for Los Angeles personal injury resources and a free consultation.

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