Oct 01, 2015 | admin
An investigation into the efficiency of the emissions systems on certain makes and models of Volkswagen (VW) vehicles has concluded the company manipulated lab test data using a piece of software. The motive? To show the vehicles had lower emission levels than they were actually putting out. Now, our defective product lawyers at CHASENBOSCOLO take a look at what led to the discovery of the misconduct, as well as what the future may hold for VW.
Defeat Devices
More than 11 million Volkswagen and Audi diesel vehicles worldwide have been equipped with what’s known as a “defeat device.” This small computer chip allows vehicles to cheat emissions tests by showing lower levels of nitrogen oxide are being expelled from the engine of the car or truck.
How Was the Problem Discovered?
Two researchers hoped to prove that diesel engines could be a clean alternative to gasoline powered cars, so they drove several different VW vehicles from San Diego to Seattle, measuring emission levels the entire way; however, when the pair examined the data they had collected, they found the vehicles had expelled more nitrogen oxide than VW advertised. In fact, the emissions were as much as 40 times greater than the legal limit.
Is My Car Affected?
As many as 482,000 American vehicles have been recalled in the wake of the VW emissions scandal. The vehicles include VW Jettas, Golfs, Passats, Beetles, and Audi A3s made between 2009 and 2015.
What Should I Do If My Car Is Part of the Recall?
Volkswagen has accepted responsibility for the faulty emissions systems and will be repairing all affected vehicles free of charge; however, you could face long-term costs.
VW Emission Scandal Lawsuits
More than two-dozen lawsuits have already been filed against VW, with owners claiming they suffered losses caused by declining vehicle values. Some plaintiffs also allege they paid higher prices for supposedly cleaner-running, environmentally friendly makes and models. According to The Wall Street Journal, attorneys are hoping to consolidate the cases soon.
Finding Resolution
Filing civil litigation in a defective product case like this can be a step toward finding closure to losses you may have suffered as the result of a company or individual’s negligence. Our personal injury lawyers at CHASENBOSCOLO Injury Lawyers are hopeful a decision in the VW emissions scandal case brings a sense of resolution to those who have been affected by this particular case of corporate misconduct.
