Lawsuits against Keyless Automobiles

Keyless automobiles have been rapidly rising in popularity. They reduce the process of starting a car to the simple press of a button as long as electronic key fob is present inside the car. Many drivers are delighted by this convenience. Gone are the days of digging through purses or pockets to find keys. Sit down and go, that is all there is to it! It is appearing however, that the convenience of keyless automobiles may also come with an element of danger.

The Dangers of Keyless Automobiles

No, these cars are not gaining sentience and going on a rampage, the dangers here is in fact much more subtle. Car owners are dying as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning. Reports of deaths have been pouring in, with 13 documented cases already confirmed in the Central District of California alone. People are beginning to take action. Personal injury and class action lawsuits have been filled on the behalf of many individuals.

Legal Ramifications

Suites have been filled against almost every major car manufacturer including: GM, Volkswagen, Mercedes-Benz, Toyota, and Ford. One specific lawsuit states that keyless fobs were sold “without instituting adequate safeguards, warnings, or other safety features,including audible engine-on alerts or ‘auto-off’.” The lawsuit further explains, “Even though an auto-off feature can be implemented without significant effort or cost, the Automakers have refused to act.”

Taking Steps for Protection

Already some of these personal injury lawsuits have been resolved in confidential settlements. Among other manufacturers, Ford and GM have “openly recognized the dangerous consequences associated with keyless fobs,” and stated they “have failed to implement the necessary safeguards.” Until additional safety precautions are implemented, owners of keyless automobiles should check with absolute certainty that their engines are turned off when they leave their cars. It is standard for keyless automobiles to come with an “engine off” button. Make it a habit to use this button in addition to removing the key fob from the automobile. If you have been the victim of any ill-effects as a result of a keyless automobile, you should seek out legal guidance from an experienced injury attorney immediately.