Judge Tells GM They May No Longer Be Able To Hide Behind Bankruptcy In Ignition Switch Lawsuits

General Motors Co. may face and be liable for certain punitive damages in lawsuits related to the ignition switch recall, according to a bankruptcy court judge’s ruling Monday.

Judge Robert Gerber of U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Manhattan said the Detroit automaker can face punitive damages for product liability claims and economic loss claims involving vehicles made by Old GM, or the company that existed before GM’s 2009 bankruptcy.

In a written opinion, the judge said those cases could be sought against today’s GM — or the company that emerged after its 2009 bankruptcy — but only when they “rely solely on New GM knowledge or conduct.”