A Pittsburgh man has filed a lawsuit against a major automobile manufacturer and a local car dealership, alleging severe injuries due to a malfunctioning airbag. David Graczyk initiated the complaint in the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, on October 23, 2023, naming General Motors LLC and CHAP Properties, Inc., doing business as 62 Motors, as defendants.
According to the court documents, Graczyk was a passenger in a 2010 Chevrolet Silverado on October 23, 2023, when the vehicle's side airbags spontaneously deployed without any collision or sudden deceleration. The incident occurred at around 8:10 p.m. at the intersection of Grimes Avenue and Dove Way in Pittsburgh. Graczyk claims that this unexpected deployment caused significant injuries to his head, right shoulder, right arm, and torso.
The lawsuit details how General Motors LLC is responsible for designing, manufacturing, assembling, marketing, testing, and selling the defective airbag system installed in the vehicle. The complaint alleges that the airbag system "failed to perform as safely as an ordinary consumer would expect" and that it was defective from the time it left General Motors' control until it caused Graczyk's injuries. Additionally, CHAP Properties Inc., which sold the vehicle to John Wilk (the owner at the time of the incident), is accused of negligence for failing to inspect or repair the defective airbag system before selling it.
Graczyk's complaint includes multiple counts: strict liability under §402A and §402B of the Restatement (Second) of Torts; negligence on part of both defendants; and breach of warranty by General Motors LLC. The plaintiff argues that both companies failed in their duty to ensure that the vehicle was safe for use and did not warn consumers about potential defects.
As a result of these alleged failures, Graczyk claims he has suffered severe physical injuries requiring extensive medical treatment. He states that he has endured great pain and suffering and will continue to do so. Furthermore, he asserts that his earning capacity has been permanently impaired due to these injuries.
Graczyk seeks damages exceeding $50,000 from both defendants for his medical expenses, lost earnings, reduced earning capacity, pain and suffering, mental anguish, loss of enjoyment of life’s pleasures, disfigurement, and other related costs. He also demands a jury trial for this case.
The case is being handled by Edward J. Balzarini Jr., Esq., from Balzarini & Watson law firm based in Pittsburgh. As per court records provided with the filing number yet to be assigned by Judge [Name], this case continues to unfold with high stakes for all parties involved.