Keyless ignition, also known as automatic ignition, was initially a luxury feature in the automotive industry. In recent years, it has become a standard feature in nearly all new cars.
Automatic ignition vehicles feature a start and stop button that a driver has to press to start the engine as long as they have the vehicle’s plastic fob in close range.
“This convenience makes it quite popular with car buyers. However, there is evidence that this convenience also comes with some dangers,” says personal injury lawyer William Umansky of The Umansky Law Firm Criminal Defense & Injury Lawyers. This guide explores these dangers and what you can do if you suffer harm.
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Removing the key kills the engine in traditional key ignition vehicles, so there is little chance of leaving your car running unknowingly. Walking off with the fob with keyless ignition vehicles doesn’t stop the engine.
With modern vehicles having relatively quiet engines, the chances of leaving the car running and consequently being exposed to carbon monoxide poisoning are high in enclosed spaces such as garages. This has occurred several times. Since the early 2000s, automatic ignition vehicles have resulted in over 30 carbon monoxide poisoning-related deaths, with dozens more suffering injuries.
Roll Away Accidents
With traditional vehicles, you must put the vehicle in park to remove the key. However, in keyless ignition vehicles, you can walk away with the keys or stop the engine without putting the car in park.
This design flaw has led to drivers exiting their vehicles while they are still in gear, resulting in rollaway incidents that can cause damage and injuries, depending on the vehicle’s position and incline.
Liability for Keyless Ignition Accidents
Liability for accidents involving keyless ignition vehicles can rest with either the driver or the car manufacturer, depending on the circumstances. In cases of carbon monoxide poisoning, liability may fall on the manufacturer, and several lawsuits have been filed, with victims recovering compensation. Despite being aware of the dangers associated with keyless ignition systems, manufacturers continue to install them, which can create grounds for liability in accidents caused by these features.
If you or someone close to you has suffered carbon monoxide poisoning, you may be entitled to compensation. However, obtaining it can be challenging. Having a lawyer with experience in automotive product liability lawsuits can be an added advantage.
In rollaway accidents, you could be held liable for resulting damages. As a driver, you have a duty of care to ensure your vehicle is safely parked by engaging the parking gear and using the parking brake as an added safety measure. Failing to uphold this duty can result in liability if an accident causes injuries or property damage.
Theft Risk with Keyless Ignition Vehicles
There is always the risk of having your vehicle stolen. With traditional key ignition vehicles, a thief typically needs the key to drive away. However, with automatic ignition vehicles, a thief may not need your key fob. By intercepting the signal from your fob, they can use easily accessible tools to create a duplicate fob.
Such incidents have become more common in recent years, prompting experts to recommend safety measures like storing your fob in signal-blocking pouches when not in use or keeping it far from doors and windows, such as inside cabinets.
