GM Gets Partial Win on Economic Losses in Ignition Suits

General Motors LLC‘s possible liability for economic losses caused by allegedly defective ignition switches has narrowed, at least in three representative cases headed for trial.

The proposed class actions are part of a huge consolidated litigation involving millions of recalled vehicles.

Summary judgment for the automaker is appropriate on the consumers’ claims to the extent they seek damages for the difference in fair market value between a non-defective vehicle and the vehicle they purchased, the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York said. The consumers’ evidence of market value fell short, the court said.

The court ...