Class Calls Keyless Autos Dangerous - Courthouse News Service
LOS ANGELES (CN) - Thirteen people have died and many more injured because cars with keyless fobs do not automatically turn off after the fob is removed, according to a federal class action against 10 major automakers. "In a number of incidents, drivers have parked their affected vehicles inside their garages and removed the keyless fobs, only to later discover that the engines never actually turned off. Those injured by carbon monoxide poisoning caused by the defect include drivers, their families, other occupants of the residence where the vehicle is left running in the garage, neighbors, and first responders," according to the 141-page complaint. Keyless fobs allow drivers to start a car without inserting a key. Automakers sell keyless fobs as "the ultimate driving convenience. " But Draeger and 27 named co-plaintiffs, from four states, say the fobs are dangerous because the engine can keep running unattended after the fob is removed. "In the name of convenience, and often at an increased purchase price, the automakers created keyless fobs without instituting adequate safeguards, warnings, or other safety features. Source: www.courthousenews.com
