Here Is How Volkswagen Is Planning To Cut Down On the Number of Lawsuits Against It

Volkswagen is taking a page from General Motors' playbook on dealing with a massive mess.

The German automaker announced yesterday that they have brought in Kenneth Feinburg to design and implement a claim program for owners of diesel models involved in the emission cheating scandal.

“We are pleased to announce the retention of Kenneth Feinberg. His extensive experience in handling such complex matters will help to guide us as we move forward to make things right with our customers,” said Michael Horn, President and CEO of Volkswagen Group of America.

According to Automobile Magazine, Feinburg says that one of the benefits that will hopefully come out of this program is cutting down on the number of lawsuits against Volkswagen.

"I would hope that one of the great benefits of this program is that individual car owners who are now litigating… Would help resolve those claims and remove them from the court system," said Feinburg.

At the moment, Volkswagen faces more than 500 lawsuits related to the emission cheating scandal.

But Feinburg is quick to point out that trying to find a remedy that will make owners happy is going to be a challenge.

"What is an appropriate remedy that would give the car owner total peace. And that is a very, very challenging question which we certainly can't answer yet."

Feinburg will be seeking input from a number of parties, including Volkswagen, the EPA, and Volkswagen owners to see what would be an appropriate solution.

Wait, where do I know the name Kenneth Feinburg?

Recently, Feinburg was brought in by General Motors to set up and handle a compensation program for victims and the families of victims who were hurt or injured due to faulty ignition switch that would turn off unexpectedly, causing the vehicle to shut off and possibly crash. Feinburg was also charged with managing the compensation funds for those affected by the September 11th attacks and BP Deepwater Horizon oil spill.