General Motors Expands Hands-Free Offerings

As autonomous driving gets closer and closer to reality, carmakers are continuing to roll out all kinds of technological bells and whistles designed to already let machines do some of the driving.

General Motors is expanding Super Cruise, a hands-free system that allows drivers to let go of the wheel by relying on high-definition maps and sensors. The system also monitors drivers to ensure that they remain alert and ready to take over the wheel if needed.

The system, which Car and Driver calls a “keep your eyes forward and hands in your lap deal,” is currently only available in certain Cadillac models. GM President Mark Reuss told Automotive News that about 22 models will get the feature in the coming years.

The move to expand Super Cruise offerings to more vehicles helps spread the hefty price tag that comes with developing the technology.

Manufacturing Defects and Safety Risks

While GM continues to pour cash into new autonomous driving technology, the company is still having trouble making more traditional vehicles without significant defects that can pose serious safety risks.

Last year, for example, the company announced it was recalling some 370,000 pickup trucks because of an engine cord problem that caused some vehicles’ engines to catch fire. Earlier this year the company pulled another 130,000 vehicles over a brake switch problem.

Fortunately for car owners in the Golden State, the California lemon law provides some important protections. The law requires car manufacturers to perform certain repairs on vehicles while they are under warranty. It also obligates manufacturers who are unwilling or unable to make those repairs to buy cars back. That includes compensating the owner for the purchase price, financing costs and other related expenses.

The law also allows a manufacturer to instead offer to replace the vehicle, but it is up to the owner to decide whether to accept this alternative. Because there is no set number of repair requests or attempts that must be made before the law kicks in, it is important to consult an experienced California lemon law attorney. The law requires the manufacturer to pick up the tab for any legal expenses a car owner incurs while enforcing his or her rights under the law.

Consult a California Lemon Law Attorney

If you are a car owner or lessor who is being haggled by a manufacturer over repairs, an experienced California lemon law attorney can help. A lawyer can help you understand your rights and options to work to ensure that the carmaker is held fully accountable.

At the Bickel Law Firm, we have represented hundreds of clients in defective vehicle cases in Southern California and across the state. Our attorneys are dedicated to helping the people we represent get the compensation they deserve.

Our offices are conveniently located in Los Angeles, San Diego and San Francisco.  Call us at (888) 800-1983 or contact us online to speak with a California lemon law attorney today.