Blankingship & Keith Partner Robert J. Stoney Quoted on BMW VCPA Class Action Ruling

Blankingship & Keith, P.C. highlights a significant ruling from the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia allowing a proposed class action under the Virginia Consumer Protection Act (VCPA) to proceed against BMW in Berl v. BMW of North America LLC.

The plaintiffs allege a “rollaway defect” in certain BMW X1 vehicles, citing delayed acceleration and sudden unintended movement that were not adequately disclosed by the manufacturer.

Blankingship & Keith partner Robert J. Stoney underscored the ruling’s broader impact:

The case “demonstrates the important role the VCPA can play in encouraging corporations to focus on product safety. We live in a relatively safe world because corporate America has taken a strong interest in product safety,” Stoney said.

Stoney further emphasized that class certification in such matters is both practical and potentially life-saving:

“Certifying a class for claims of a serious safety defect in thousands of automobiles will save lives.”

The decision is notable because Virginia state courts do not generally permit class actions. However, the federal court concluded that the VCPA does not expressly bar such actions, enabling class-based claims under Federal Rule 23.

At Blankingship & Keith, P.C., our personal injury attorneys are steadfast in their commitment to advancing consumer safety and ensuring accountability across state and federal consumer protection matters.

About Blankingship & Keith, P.C.Blankingship & Keith, P.C. is a full-service law firm based in Fairfax, Virginia, representing clients across Northern Virginia and the District of Columbia. The firm’s attorneys are widely recognized for their skill in litigation, appellate advocacy, business law, real estate, education law, and personal injury, combining deep legal knowledge with a commitment to delivering practical solutions for clients.

Media Contact:

Craig SchultzMarketing & Business Development ManagerBlankingship & Keith, P.C.703.691.1235 | cschultz@bklawva.com | www.blankingshipandkeith.com