Key Points

• Class Action: Alleged defects in GM ignition switches (1997-2014) causing loss of power steering, brakes, and airbags. Plaintiffs claimed GM knew of defects from 2002 but recalled only in 2014.
• Settlement: GM to pay $12 million to settle claims and $4,397,500 for plaintiffs' counsel fees.

Court's Decision

• Approval: Settlement and counsel fees approved.
• Considerations:
  • High litigation risks and challenges
  • Likelihood of recovery and trial success
  • Extensive discovery and investigation
  • Comparable US settlements
  • Arms-length bargaining and experienced counsel recommendations
  • Minimal objections from class members

Settlement Details

• Class Certification: Certified for settlement purposes, defining National and Quebec Settlement Classes.
• Compensation: Varies by defect type and recall, with specific multipliers for subclasses.
• Counsel Fees: $4,397,500 (~19.26% contingency fee), deemed reasonable due to case complexities and counsel efforts.

Additional Information

• Parallel Actions: Related actions filed across Canada and in the US, with significant settlements achieved there.
• Administrative Expenses: Estimated $1,487,087 to $2,066,209 based on a 5-15% take-up rate.

Conclusion

The settlement agreement and counsel fees are fair and reasonable, offering expedited resolution and relief for class members without prolonged litigation uncertainties.

Summary

The plaintiffs were successful in reaching a settlement agreement with General Motors. The total monetary award granted includes a $12 million settlement fund for class members and $4,397,500 in counsel fees, making the overall total $16,397,500.