According to internal GM memos, deaths resulting from post-collision fuel-tank fires cost the company $2.40 per car, based on the estimate that each life “has a value of $200,000”. Improving the design of the car would cost approximately $8.59 per car, yet GM executives chose not to do so.
For about 9 bucks, the Andersons’ tragic story would never have happened. On Christmas Eve, 1993, Patricia Anderson was driving her four children home from church services when her car was rear-ended. The other car’s front end had forced its way under the rear bumper of Ms. Anderson’s car, puncturing her fuel tank in several places. The fuel then ignited, turning the car into an instant inferno. Three of Ms. Anderson’s four children suffered burns on more than 60% of their flesh, including eight-year-old Kiontra who tried to get back into the car to save her younger sister.
A 1999 jury found General Motors Corp. had knowingly endangered the lives of their customers in order to cut costs and increase profits. The company was ordered to provide compensation to the Andersons for their horrific burns.
When facing such incredibly defective product damages, it is crucial to have a good personal injury lawyer on your case.
