General Motors received 475 death claims, 289 major injury claims and 3,578 minor injury compensation claims. The defect did not affect models sold in Portugal.
US automaker General Motors (GM) today acknowledged that at least 80 people died from a defect in the ignition system in the group's cars. An alarming number, calculated by a division of the manufacturer dedicated to evaluating complaints filed by victims and family members.
Altogether, of the 475 claims and claims for death compensation, GM declared 80 eligible, while 172 were rejected, 105 found to be disabled, 91 are under review and 27 did not present supporting documentation.
According to the brand, this division also received 289 claims for serious injuries and 3,578 claims for compensation for less serious injuries that required hospitalization.
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The defect in question affects the ignition system of around 2.6 million vehicles produced by different GM brands a decade ago. The ignition of faulty models would suddenly turn off the car, disconnecting security systems like the airbag. None of these models were sold in Portugal.
The company has determined that the families of the properly proven fatal victims should receive one million dollars (about 910,000 euros) in compensation, as long as they do not file any legal action against GM.
Source: Diário de Notícias and Globo