I've been thinking about what you wrote. I assume it's correct, as I would not have any of the knowledge it would take to refute it.
I don't think that excuses them at all. Upon buying that car, people should be told "no bulky keychains". The airbag not working when the car is still moving is not a good situation. I always thought it released on any impact, and it should. People should be informed "what to do if the ignition shuts down" as part of of the walk-through of a new car.
One thing I insist on which isn't part of the sales routine is besides a test drive to have a passenger drive, when I'm the passenger while the salesperson describes what one should be aware of when driving the car. It's an idea that's served me well.
Yes, GM has a responsibility. Even if (as you say) these accidents are usually avoidable, information needs to go to the consumer so the driver knows how to avoid them.
Actually, as early as 2005 or 2006, GM notified owners that they should not have bulky, heavy weight items on their key-chains.
And, in my driver’s ed class, we were taught what to do if you lose power in your vehicle while driving. I figured that everyone had such training.
Of course, additional information and training never hurt anyone, but I am saying that yes, GM has SOME responsibility, but I don’t think they own 100% of the responsibility.
What is the “required” weight capacity of an ignition switch? I mean, if a driver wants to hang a 5 pound weight from it, should GM be required to meet that standard?